Exotic Nation

In Exotic Nation, Barbara Fuchs offers a compelling exploration of Spain’s delicate balancing act with its Moorish past. The book examines how the legacy of al-Andalus has been interwoven into the fabric of Spanish identity, drawing on diverse cultural expressions such as literature, costume, language, architecture, and chivalric practices. By delving into Spain’s historical trajectory following the fall of Granada in 1492 and leading up to the expulsion of the Moriscos in 1609, Fuchs uncovers the intricate interplay between repression and appropriation of Moorish heritage. Through detailed analysis, Fuchs reveals how Spanish cultural forms reflect a paradoxical relationship with their Muslim influences. Rather than merely exoticizing the Moors, the literary and material manifestations of this heritage serve as a subtle reminder of their enduring presence in the national consciousness. Exotic Nation thus provides a thoughtful investigation into the hybrid cultural identity that continues to define Spain.