The Changing Spanish Family

Despite centuries of Catholic conservatism, Spain stands among the Western countries that have recently embraced non-traditional families. A decline in the dominance of extended families, single-parent households, and an increase in the number of working mothers have all transformed what it means to be a "Spanish family." Many factors have prompted this change, including the end of Franco's dictatorship, the liberalization of society, economic reforms, Spanish feminism, and recent Socialist constitutional reforms recognizing the rights of same-sex partners. This collection of essays examines how authors, filmmakers and playwrights are engaging with changes to Spanish culture, exploring the cultural manifestations that come from the redefining of Spanish society.