curanderas, brujas and saints: a history of spirituality

What is a curandera? A bruja? A shaman? A folk saint? How have the roles and representations of thesespiritual practitioners changed and/or persisted over time? What role have healers (curanderas), witches(brujas) and saints played in the history of the Southwest?

As we read historical accounts of miraculous healing and spiritual struggles between indigenous groupsand the state, v isit sacred spaces, speak with healers, and witness religious and healing ceremonies, wewill attempt to answer these questions. This course explores the rich and diverse history of spirituality andhealing in the Southwest, pay ing close attention to the variety of healers and spiritual traditions of thisregion. We will also read primary and secondary historical sources in order to put these healers, witchesand saints into historical and cultural context.

For more informat ion contact : Jennifer Seman jseman@mail.smu.edu

Curanderas, Brujas and Saints:A History of Spirituality and Healing in the Southwest

HIST 3310 June 4 – July 3 2013Instructor Jennifer Seman