Cotton Mather’s Spanish Lessons

Discover the fascinating intersection of language, race, and identity in Cotton Mather’s Spanish Lessons by Kirsten Silva Gruesz, published by Harvard University Press in 2022. This insightful exploration delves into the groundbreaking work of Cotton Mather, who in 1699 wrote the first Spanish-language text in the English New World—a religious tract aimed at evangelizing readers across the Spanish Americas. Gruesz expertly analyzes Mather’s text, revealing how its themes resonate with the complexities of race, ethnicity, and language that shape Latina/o/x belonging in contemporary society. With 336 pages of thought-provoking content, this hardback edition invites readers to reflect on the historical and ongoing influences of Mather's work. Perfect for those interested in American history, linguistics, and cultural studies, this book is a must-have for your collection.