Pinches Brujas: Magical Women in Latine Fiction The figure of the ‘Witch’ is a prevalent symbol in many cultures and has been widely represented in literature and media around the world. In Latin American and the Caribbean, the development of various forms of witchcraft has undergone a process of syncretism, blending indigenous and foreign beliefs. The introduction of Catholicism by European colonizers brought with it the idea of witchcraft as inherently ‘evil,’ a stark contrast to the role such practices had previously played in indigenous cultures. This demonization of rituals and practices that conflicted with Catholic doctrine influenced early representations of witches, casting them as malevolent figures and marginalizing indigenous spiritual traditions that once held and important place in pre-colonial societies. This course focuses on the portrayal of Latinx magical women in literature and film across a wide range of magical traditions, including Hechiceras, Brujas, Curanderas, Obeahs, and Shamans. We will explore the evolution of the witch’s image—from marginalized, demonic, or antagonistic figures to modern feminist representations that subvert patriarchal oppression. These newer depictions challenge the historical use of the ‘witch’ as a tool to persecute and erase women who defy hegemonic systems. Some of the works we will explore in the class include novels, such as Bless me Ultima (1972) by Rudolfo Anaya, Hurricane Season (2017) by Fernanda Melchor or Witches (2011) by Brenda Lozano, Historical fiction like I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem (1986) by Maryse Condé, and other media: Films like Circe (1964), based on the story by the same name by Julio Cortazar, and shows like Siempre Bruja (2019-2020) created by Ana Maria Parra.