María Cordero

María Cordero is an Associate Professor in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at Utah State University, where she contributes to the study of Spanish and Latin American literatures. Her academic work is situated within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, focusing on advanced language instruction and literary analysis.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Spanish, Princeton University, 1999
• M.A. in Spanish, Princeton University, 1992
• M.A. in Comparative Literature, New York University, 1988–1999
• B.A., Loyola University of Chicago, 1988

Her research centers on Colonial Spanish-American Literature and Golden Age Spanish Literature, with additional focus on Latino Studies. She investigates how historical events and identities are represented in early chronicles, particularly those concerning Chile and colonial Santiago. Her work blends literary analysis with cultural and historical inquiry.

The recent publications reflect a consistent thematic focus on the representation of place, power, and memory in colonial texts from the Siglos de Oro. She examines how narratives such as Valdivia’s letters and Vivar’s chronicle construct national and imperial identities through symbolic imagery and historical retelling.

Professional Activities and Recognition:

• Presented at the Latin American Studies Association Conference, Miami, 2000
• Presented at the Second Biennial Conference on Iberian/Iberian-American Literatures, Florida International University, 1999

She regularly teaches courses in Spanish language, literature, and pedagogy, including Intro to Spanish Literature and Composition, Advanced Spanish Grammar, and Survey of Latin American Literature. While no formal advising or grant activities are detailed, her scholarly presence is evident through ongoing research and conference participation.