This course explores contemporary Kenya in the context of its historical positioning and modern value to Western econo-political interests, and how this translates in daily livelihoods of Kenyans. Focus is on 4 themes: 1) Kenya as home to the earliest human origins and civilizations; 2) Kenya's evolution as an "anti-socialism" capital of Western capitalism in the region; 3) The country's central position in anti-terrorism war between the West and Middle East; 4) Problematizing Kenya/Africa's image of corruption as an explanation of underdevelopment. Course is experiential. Excursions count towards final grade.

A four-week summer immersion course in Lisbon, designed to increase students' linguistic and cultural fluency providing a deeper understanding of Portuguese culture and society through literary texts, periodicals, cultural excursions, and lectures. Students will explore the city as a means to discuss national and transnational identities, with particular emphasis on Portugal's relationship with Africa. We will investigate its histories of slavery, colonialism, immigration, commerce, and cultural exchange from the age of maritime expansion to the present day, revealing the way in which these have shaped the Portuguese cultural landscape.