Cognitive Approaches to Early Modern Spanish Literature is the first anthology exploring human cognition and literature in the context of early modern Spanish culture. It includes the leading voices in the field, along with the main themes and directions that this important area of study has been producing.

Overview of Cognitive Literary Studies

The book begins with an overview of the cognitive literary studies research that has been taking place within early modern Spanish studies over the last fifteen years.

Creation of Self in the Novel

Next, it traces the creation of self in the context of the novel, focusing on Cervantes's Don Quixote in relation to the notions of embodiment and autopoiesis as well as the faculties of memory and imagination as understood in early modernity.

Embodiment and Interaction

It continues to explore the concept of embodiment, showing its relevance to delve into the mechanics of the interaction between actors and audience both in the jongleuresque and the comedia traditions.

Cognitive Theories and Perception

It then centers on cognitive theories of perception, the psychology of immersion in fictional worlds, and early modern and modern-day notions of intentionality to discuss the role of perceiving and understanding others in performance, Don Quixote, and courtly conduct manuals.

Affective Dimension of Audience-Performer Interactions

The last section focuses on the affective dimension of audience-performer interactions in the theatrical space of the Spanish corrales and how emotion and empathy can inform new approaches to presenting Las Casas's work in the literature classroom.

Conclusion and Teaching Strategies

The volume closes with an afterword offering strategies to design a course on mind and literature in early modernity.