The Basques are an ancient people who came to feel at risk of extinction in the late 19th century. Since then, Basque nationalism has sought to empower the Basque nation – Euskal Herria – and the Basque language – Euskara – inevitably leading to a prolonged conflict with the Spanish and French states. Contemporary Basque society is thus characterized by its conflicting national and linguistic identities: on the one hand, Basque; on the other, Spanish and French.
This module examines the key dimensions of this conflict from cultural, historical, and political perspectives. It also encourages reflection on potential pathways to resolving these tensions. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to explore more informally other facets of the Basque Country, such as its cities, natural landscapes, cuisine, sports, and cultural production.
Through the study of contemporary Basque society, students are invited to reflect on the concepts of national and linguistic identity, their significance to all of us, their remarkable fragility, and how these issues connect to the students’ own experiences as members of their respective nations.