The Routledge Research Companion to the Works of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz

Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, the Tenth Muse, is a prominent figure in Latin American and Baroque letters, popular culture, and feminism. This research guide explores her work through various frameworks, including her status as an iconic figure, popular culture, and feminism, and serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students of the Baroque, colonial Novohispanic religious institutions, and womens and gender studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 342 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, often referred to as the Tenth Muse by her contemporaries, has remained a captivating figure in both popular and scholarly circles. While generations of Mexican schoolchildren have etched her satirical verses into their memories, it was only in the 1970s that her writing garnered consistent scholarly attention. This volume delves into the various areas of scholarship that shed light on her remarkable work, encompassing her status as an iconic figure in Latin American and Baroque letters, her influence in Mexican and American popular culture, and her profound exploration of feminism. By examining her work through multiple frameworks, this research guide serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in the Baroque in Europe and Latin America, the religious institutions of colonial New Spain, and the study of women and gender.

The chapters in this volume are organized into four distinct sections, each addressing different aspects of Sor Juana's life and artistic endeavors. The first section explores the institutional contexts that shaped her life and work, encompassing political, economic, religious, intellectual, and legal aspects. The second section delves into the reception history of her writings, examining how they have been interpreted and celebrated by different audiences throughout history. The third section examines the literary genres in which Sor Juana excelled, including poetry, drama, and prose. Finally, the fourth section offers insights into future research directions, highlighting areas that warrant further exploration and analysis.

Throughout these chapters, the authors provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Sor Juana's life and work. They engage with a wide range of academic debates and perspectives, offering fresh insights and interpretations that challenge traditional narratives. The volume is particularly valuable for students who are embarking on research projects related to the Baroque, colonialism, women's studies, and gender studies, as it provides a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the complex terrain of Sor Juana's intellectual and artistic legacy.

In conclusion, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz remains a pivotal figure in the history of literature and culture. This volume serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and the ongoing significance of her work. By examining her life and work through multiple frameworks, it provides a valuable resource for scholars and students seeking to deepen their understanding of the Baroque, colonialism, women's studies, and gender studies.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 175 x 243 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032096919