Chicano literature
Chicano literature is an aspect of Mexican-American literature that emerged from the cultural consciousness developed in the Chicano Movement.[1][2] Chicano literature formed out of the political and cultural struggle of Chicana/os to develop a political foundation and identity that rejected Anglo-American hegemony.[1][3] This literature embraced the pre-Columbian roots of Mexican-Americans, especially those who identify as Chicana/os.[3][4]
Chicano literature first emerged in the mid-1960s and is notable for its early embrace of Spanglish in published literature as well as its use of hybrid forms and styles.[2][5] Chicana/o writers often include earlier published literature as residing within or as being a precursor to the tradition.[6][7] In addition to prose, Chicano poetry and playwriting are included as forms of Chicano literature.[3][5]
Forms and styles[edit]
Chicano prose[edit]
Chicano prose is unique as a literary tradition for its strong embrace of hybridity in both its form and style. This often meant the inclusion or embrace of Spanish or Spanglish, the use of themes related to magical realism, and a integration of different literary genres into one work, such as fiction and autobiography.[2][3]