The Lion and the Lamb: Literature and Linguistics in Spanish Departments

Linguists are an increasing presence not only in graduate programs but at undergraduate institutions as well, and this could lead to positive interdisciplinary changes in curricula. Literary/cultural texts contain masterful examples of how linguistic features are used to communicate meaning, and learners need to notice these features in order to continue acquiring Spanish. One role that linguistic analysis can play in this ongoing process is to facilitate noticing. Such analysis is exemplified in four texts in which the manipulation of forms of address contributes to plot and character development. Integrating linguistic analysis into reading practice requires intentional steps, some of which are suggested here.