Sport & Culture in Contemporary Spain

The aim of this course is to analyze the important role that sport plays within European culture in general and particularly in modern Spain. A structural study from a historical and sociological standpoint of the relations between politics, media and sport will serve as a useful route to understanding wider issues in contemporary Spanish society. The historical framework to this module will be provided by an analysis of the socio-political use of sport by the Francoist dictatorship and the repercussions of this heritage on 21st century Spain. The sociology of sport involves in-class analysis of related phenomena such as the role of the media, the business of sport, violence, gender issues regarding sport and cross cultural comparisons with the sports-culture matrix in the USA.

The course will adopt a hands-on approach to the subject matter including case studies, field studies to sporting events and organizations, guest lecturers (journalists, sports administrators, professional athletes) and will require a significant level of participation on your behalf.