In this course we shall explore the theme of the madwoman in contemporary Hispanic fiction and film. Our goal is to analyze the representation and exploitation of women suffering from mental illnesses in a multiplicity of genres ranging from historical novels and fantastic literature to detective stories and horror films. We will pay special attention to the variety of political and ideological agendas with which the female icon of “la loca” has been infused. Works and films include: Del amor y otros demonios by Gabriel García Márquez, Delirio by Laura Restrepo, Hipnos by Javier Azpeitia, El fin de la locura by Jorge Volpi, Alas de mariposa by Juanma Bajo Ulloa, and Juana la Loca by Vicente Aranda. Additional readings from a wide range of disciplines (feminism, literary and film theory, psychology and psychoanalysis) will enhance our understanding of these texts and films.