GUIDELINES FOR PREPARATION FOR THE M. A. EXAM IN SPANISH

1.      The basis for the exam is the M. A. Reading List in Hispanic Literature of 4/1/94.  This list has been designed so as to give certainty to students that they will have read the most important works of Hispanic literatures by the end of their M. A. program.  It consists of selected works, which should guide students in filling any lacunae caused by their concentration of courses during their residence.  It must be reiterated that this material must be regarded as an index to discuss the broader areas which each of these works serves as a symptomatic item.  For instance, inclusion of El Lazarillo de Tormes would be used to explore the whole picaresque narrative, in its various representative works.  Inclusion of Julio Cortazar’s Rayuela would lead to a more ample discussion of Spanish American boom narrative, its major authors, and works. 

2.      The exam consists of the following parts to be administered on two separate days:

DAY ONE: PENINSULAR

a)      Medieval                              1 hour

b)      Siglo de Oro                        1 hour

c)      18^th, 19^th & 20^th Centuries                  1 hour                                   

DAY TWO: Spanish American

a)      Colonial                              1 hour

b)      Nineteenth Century                  1 hour

c)      Twentieth Century                  1 hour

3.      General recommendations:

a)      Begin the process of reading from the list as soon as you enter the M. A. program.

b)      Establish a realistic daily reading schedule and adhere to it.

c)      Keep abundant and clear notes on your reading.  Review your notes on a regular basis.  Do not trust your memory.

d)      Take as many graduate courses as possible when offered.  They may not be offered again for some time.

e)      Consult with the graduate faculty on a regular basis.

f)        Schedule the exam only when you feel you are ready.  Consult with the Spanish section graduate advisor. 

g)      Past exams are on file for your review.  Practice taking an exam with the old questions.

h)      Take MLLL 5073 Contemporary Literary Criticism as early as possible.