Description: Examines U.S. representations of Mexico and Mexican representations of the U.S.; parallels and differences between intellectual debates in the two nations, for example, around the question of nation building in a racially diverse society; cultrual transformations taking place on the U.S.-Mexico border. Discussion of a wide range of sources, including novels, short stories, essays, journalism, travel literature, and film. Recommended prerequisite(s): Advanced Spanish or permission of instructor.