Spending part of your summer in Madrid, even for a working vacation, doesn’t sound too bad. Known for its stunning palaces, rich history, lovely parks, renowned art collections, and elegant boulevards, it is Spain’s central capital. A long way from Seguin, to be sure, but this summer, TLU’s Dr. Ariadne de Villa, associate professor of Spanish, made the trip. She was there for two reasons. First, to present the second edition of her book, Introducción al estudio de la lengua española, to the library at Middlebury College. And second, to take part in a panel discussion on applied linguistics in collaboration with colleagues from Syracuse University, West Virginia University, and West Chester University, at the International Congress of Literature and Hispanic Studies.
De Villa is no stranger to Spain: She earned her master’s in Spanish through Middlebury College, both in Vermont and at the Middlebury School in Spain, in Madrid. She earned a second master’s and her doctorate at University of Málaga in Málaga, Spain.
Introducción al estudio de la lengua española (Introduction to the study of the Spanish language) offers an opportunity for language learners, native speakers, and educators to explore the Spanish language and its history from a fresh perspective. Ultimately, the book doesn’t fit neatly into the category of manual or textbook. It is the result of years of research, teaching, and reflection on de Villa’s part, encouraging readers, students, teachers, and language enthusiasts alike to explore the Spanish language as a vibrant, ever-changing, and profoundly human space.
To learn more or get your copy of the book, click here: