The J-Term in Lisbon is designed in such a way that students will be in direct contact with Lisbon’s rich history, Lusophone academics, and local institutions that respond to the Portugal’s legacy of colonialism. In addition to the numerous group excursions that will range from visits to historical sites and academic talks to cultural events (e.g., concerts, football match) and non-profit institutions, among others, students will read texts dealing with the Lusophone world’s history, Empire, and culture (e.g., a canonical novel set in Lisbon) and they will screen films related to these very topics. In short, in order to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Lusophone world and it historical and contemporary connections to Empire, Colonization, and Democracy, the Lisbon J-Term will expose them to the widest range possible of agents, cultural manifestations, texts, and locales.

Designated as the capital of Portugal in 1256, Lisbon is Europe’s westernmost capital city and one of the major economic centers on the continent. Famous for its seven hills, Lisbon offers a wide array of museums, castles, parks, libraries, and world class dining.

POTR 4559: Empire, Colonies, and Democracy
The Lisbon J-Term course offers students the opportunity to contemplate varied forms of expansion (economic and territorial), subjugation (physical and symbolic), and participation through the exploration of Portugal’s imperial aspirations beginning in the fifteenth century, its long history of colonization in Brazil and Africa, and its present-day turn toward becoming one of Europe’s most progressive nation-states. In addition to readings and class discussions, students will participate in group excursions ranging from visits to historical sites and museums to musical shows and local non-profit organizations. Ultimately, the interaction between the classroom and site visits will provide students with a culturally and geographically diverse experience that will ultimately augment their understanding of Portugal and its role in helping to shape the modern world in which we live

Eli Carter | elc6b@virginia.edu

Eli Carter is an Associate Professor of Brazilian Literature, Film, and Television, the Director of the Portuguese Program, and the Director of the Latin American Studies Program. He holds a BA in Communications from the University of California, Davis and a PhD in Hispanic Languages and Literatures from the University of California, Los Angeles. Professor Carter's research focuses broadly on Brazilian Culture(s) with an emphasis on television, new media, and popular culture.

We will stay in a centrally located hotel. Breakfast and some dinners are included.

The University of Virginia believes in providing reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities on an individual basis. This program in Lisbon involves walking significant distances each day, extensive time spent standing, visits to non-wheel chair accessible areas, and utilizing public transportation and buses that do not offer assistance. If you believe that you would require adjustments in order to fully participate in this program, please contact the Student Disability Access Center at 434-243-5180 as early as possible in order to begin this dialogue.

All participants will need a valid passport in order to participate in the program. Students must ensure that their passport is valid at least six months past the program return date. US passport holders will NOT need a visa to participate in this program. International students should meet with their International Student Advisor and Education Abroad Advisor in the International Studies Office as part of the application process.

All students considering Education Abroad should consult the Students Abroad section of the U.S. Department of State’s web-based travel resources and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Traveler’s Health web resources to research health, safety, and security conditions; visa requirements; immunization requirements; and recommendations on staying healthy and safe in their target destination(s). Students should also carefully review the UVA Education Abroad Health & Safety Abroad web page. Parents and guardians are strongly advised to review all of these resources, as well. UVA students and visiting students enrolled in UVA Education Abroad programs are subject to the University of Virginia’s Policy on Student International Travel.