Cervantes and the invention of the modern novel
Stockholm University now offers a course in English on Cervantes and his central role the rise of the modern novel, from Baroque to post-modern.
How did Don Quixote fit into the period when it was written? What type of literature made it possible, what were the historical events that marked its composition, what sort of society was prepared to read and enjoy it? And more to the point, how did they read it? We will look at how the Renaissance was transformed into the Baroque, how different types of literature (the picaresque, the chivalresque) flowed into the work, and how changes in way society worked and philosophy was done brought about the conditions for Cervantes’ epoch-changing book. We’ll also peek a little into the author’s own adventurous biography. And then, from the Quixote, we’ll look at how the modern novel evolves over time, and the repeated importance of Cervantes’ work at each stage of its development.
Information for admitted students spring 2025
Congratulations! You have been admitted at Stockholm University and we hope that you will enjoy your studies with us.
In order to ensure that your studies begin as smoothly as possible we have compiled a short checklist for the beginning of the semester.
Follow the instructions on whether you have to reply to your offer or not.
universityadmissions.se
Checklist for admitted students
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Activate your university account
The first step in being able to register and gain access to all the university's IT services.
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Register at your department
Registration can be done in different ways. Read the instructions from your department below.
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Read all the information on this page
Here you will find what you need to know before your course or programme starts.
IMPORTANT
Your seat may be withdrawn if you do not register according to the instructions provided by your department.
Information from your department
On this page you will shortly find information on registration, learning platform, etc.
Welcome activities
Stockholm University organises a series of welcome activities that stretch over a few weeks at the beginning of each semester. The programme is voluntary (attendance is optional) and includes Arrival Service at the airport and an Orientation Day, see more details about these events below.
Your department may also organise activities for welcoming international students. More information will be provided by your specific department.
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For new international students
How did Don Quixote fit into the period when it was written? What type of literature made it possible, what were the historical events that marked its composition, what sort of society was prepared to read and enjoy it? And more to the point, how did they read it? We will look at how the Renaissance was transformed into the Baroque, how different types of literature (the picaresque, the chivalresque) flowed into the work, and how changes in way society worked and philosophy was done brought about the conditions for Cervantes’ epoch-changing book. We’ll also peek a little into the author’s own adventurous biography. And then, from the Quixote, we’ll look at how the modern novel evolves over time, and the repeated importance of Cervantes’ work at each stage of its development.
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Course structure
The overall document for a course is the course syllabus. The syllabus can be found in the menu on the right. In this description, we clarify how to complete the course in practice. The course description should provide good guidance, but is not comprehensive. Further clarifications in oral or written form are given by the teacher during the lessons. Do not hesitate to ask the teacher if questions would remain. To see which teachers teach the course, and for information about the schedule and examination, see further under "Schedule". Information about Literature Lists can be found under Course literature.
Teaching format
Teaching takes place in English. You can read the texts translated into Swedish or in Spanish. You can read more about this course below. This course consists of lectures and seminars. You prepare for each lesson by reading relevant parts of the course literature. Course material, in the form of, for example, teacher presentations or reflection questions about the literature, is continuously posted on our learning platform. There is also information about the course implementation and clear reading instructions. During the classes, you are expected to participate actively and contribute to the discussion.
Assessment
The course is examined through a digital exam (in English, Swedish or Spanish). For general information about cheating and plagiarism, see also Stockholm University's rulebook on rules for examinations and guidelines for disciplinary matters at Stockholm University.
Examiner
Anthony Lappin
Juan Carlos Cruz Suárez -
Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course. -
Course reports
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More information
For general information about cheating and plagiarism, see also Stockholm University's rulebook on rules for examinations and guidelines for disciplinary matters at Stockholm University.
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Contact
Juan Carlos Cruz SuárezAssociate Professor in Spansish
- Visiting address
- B 5165
- Universitetsvägen 10 B, plan 5
Spanish & Portuguese
Portuguese: Studievagledare.portugisiska@su.se
Spanish: Studievagledare.spanska@su.se
Student Office
The Student Affairs Office is located on the fifth floor in the B-house (Södra huset, Frescati). The office can help you with general questions regarding your studies, such as registration, and signing up for exams. This is also the place to pick up your written exams.
Student Affairs Office
