Postcolonial Studies in Spain

This article provides a general overview of the state of Postcolonial Studies in Spain at the present moment. After attempting a definition of the discipline, which is a minefield of ambiguities and contradictions, a brief outline of the history of this new area of studies is provided. Emphasis is given to the pioneers of Postcolonial Studies as, thanks to their efforts, a whole new range of literary studies was made available to Spanish students. During the late eighties and nineties, the former Commonwealth literature, now generally known by its more fashionable name of Postcolonial Studies, really gained momentum in the Spanish academy. Not only previously unknown writers but also postcolonial theory become compulsory reading for anyone working in this area. The article concludes by celebrating the growing enthusiasm for the discipline as the selected bibliography amply demonstrates