Cost and Registration Information

Early Registration Price (by May 19): $240
Regular Price (after May 19): $264

Call (312) 255-3700 to register for Section A

Register Here for Section B

Seminar Description

The devastating civil war in Spain from 1936 to 1939 foreshadowed the larger conflict between democracy and fascism during the Second World War. Rooted in long developing political and social tensions, the war between progressive republican and conservative nationalist forces in Spain quickly became an international cause, attracting foreign volunteers, including George Orwell, whose Homage to Catalonia will be discussed. Topics will include the bombing of Guernica and the rise to power of Francisco Franco. Eight sessions.

Frank A. Biletz received his PhD in history from the University of Chicago, with a primary specialization in modern British and Irish history, and secondary fields in modern German and Spanish history. He is currently Adjunct Instructor in History at Loyola University Chicago and has been teaching seminars at the Newberry since 1994.

Materials List

Required:

• George Orwell, Homage to Catalonia (New York: Mariner Books, 1980). ISBN# 978-0156421171.
• Paul Preston, The Spanish Civil War: Reaction, Revolution, and Revenge. Revised and expanded edition. (New York and London; W. W. Norton, 2006). ISBN# 978-0393329872.

First Readings:

• For the first class meeting, participants should read the introduction and chapter one of Paul Preston's, The Spanish Civil War: Reaction, Revolution, and Revenge.

This class is part of the Newberry’s Adult Education Seminars Program. Learn more about our registration procedures.