Rosario Castellanos: A Pillar of 20th Century Mexican Literature
Rosario Castellanos, a fundamental figure in 20th-century Mexican literature, is being honored with a series of events leading up to the centennial of her birth. The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has opened an exhibition at San Ildefonso, featuring photographs, manuscripts, voice recordings, and one of her Olympia SM-9 typewriters.
A Glimpse into Castellanos’ Writing Life
After her tenure as Mexican ambassador to Israel from 1971 until her death in 1974, Castellanos would return home to her study, where her son, Gabriel Guerra Castellanos, would respectfully maintain a distance while she worked on her Olympia SM-9 typewriter. This compact, unassuming machine was ideal for journalism and literary pursuits requiring frequent travel.
The Exhibition: “Un Cielo Sin Fronteras. Rosario Castellanos, Archivo Inédito”
The exhibition, titled “Un Cielo Sin Fronteras. Rosario Castellanos, Archivo Inédito” (A Sky Without Borders. Rosario Castellanos, Unpublished Archive), showcases over 100 meticulously selected items from Gabriel Guerra Castellanos’ collection. These artifacts, many never before seen by the public, include photographs, manuscripts, voice recordings, and personal belongings that paint a vivid picture of Castellanos’ life.
Upcoming Events in Celebration of World Book Day and Castellanos’ Birthday
“Cartas a Ricardo”
- Date: April 25, 17:00
- Event: Fiesta del Libro y la Rosa (Book and Rose Festival)
- Location: Centro Cultural Universitario
Academic Jornadas (Symposium) Dedicated to Rosario Castellanos
- Location: Aula Magna de la Facultad de Filosofía y Letras, UNAM
- Dates: May 2, 16, and 23
Film Screening: “Los Adioses” (The Farewells)
- Director: Natalia Beristáin
- Screening Dates: May 23 and 25
- Venue: Librería Rosario Castellanos
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Rosario Castellanos? An influential Mexican author and diplomat, known for her significant contributions to 20th-century Mexican literature.
- Why is she being celebrated? To mark the centennial of her birth and honor her prolific and multifaceted literary career.
- What is the exhibition about? “Un Cielo Sin Fronteras. Rosario Castellanos, Archivo Inédito” showcases personal items and documents from Castellanos’ life, offering insights into her writing process and experiences.
- What events are being held in her honor? A series of events, including academic symposiums, film screenings, and a book festival, are taking place at various locations in Mexico City.
