ANTH 249 - Pura Vida: Costa Rican Culture and Society

3 Credit(s)

Costa Rica is a top tourist haven known for its white sand beaches, tropical rainforests, biodiversity, and laid-back vibes. However, what is often overlooked by the flocks of foreigners who visit each year is the rich cultural diversity and varied histories that make Costa Rica the magnificent destination that it is. As such, this course explores the formation of Costa Rican national identity vis-à-vis the different subcultures and demographic groups found throughout the country. Some examples include the Afro-Costa Rican Limonense population, indigenous tribes such as the Chorotega and Maleku, the unique Guanacasteco culture of the northwest region, and the rich history of the Chino Tico (Chinese-Costa Rican) population. Topics pertinent to understanding these subcultures—such as the work of Marcus Garvey and the Black Star Line, land tenure, rural social movements, and influences of Nicaraguan relations/migration—are explored through anthropological works. Learning about the vibrant folklore, traditions, art forms, and histories associated with these groups enables students to develop a more nuanced understanding of people who call the land of ‘pura vida’ home.

Costa Rica is a top tourist haven known for its white sand beaches, tropical rainforests, biodiversity, and laid-back vibes. However, what is often overlooked by the flocks of foreigners who visit each year is the rich cultural diversity and varied histories that make Costa Rica the magnificent destination that it is. As such, this course explores the formation of Costa Rican national identity vis-à-vis the different subcultures and demographic groups found throughout the country. Some examples include the Afro-Costa Rican Limonense population, indigenous tribes such as the Chorotega and Maleku, the unique Guanacasteco culture of the northwest region, and the rich history of the Chino Tico (Chinese-Costa Rican) population. Topics pertinent to understanding these subcultures—such as the work of Marcus Garvey and the Black Star Line, land tenure, rural social movements, and influences of Nicaraguan relations/migration—are explored through anthropological works. Learning about the vibrant folklore, traditions, art forms, and histories associated with these groups enables students to develop a more nuanced understanding of people who call the land of ‘pura vida’ home.