When studying a new language it is important to understand the culture that envelops and supports that language to truly understand it. North American society and Latin society have many similarities but also some differences. Below I will discuss two fundamental institutions in Latin society; family and church.
Latin society is a collective society. North American society is different, we are raised to be independent and to put our own opinions and goals ahead of those of the family as a whole. While many North Americans celebrate birthdays and other occasions only with friends or their romantic partner, Latin people celebrate an anniversary, birthday or wedding with the entire extended family. The concept of the nuclear family doesn’t really exist as it is common to live with, or very close to, extended family members such as grandparents, uncles and cousins. To this end, people often have closer relationships with their extended family members than are found in North America.
In addition to the family, the Catholic Church plays a relatively large role in the everyday lives of most Latin people. Many attend church regularly such as every Sunday or even every day. The church is not only a place to pray, but also serves as a basis for the community at large. All of life’s major milestones are tied to the church such as baptism, marriage and death.
The type of Catholicism found in Latin America differs from that found in Europe in countries such as Italy, Spain and France. When the Spaniards brought the Catholic faith to the New World around 500 years ago, it was adopted by the native indigenous peoples. However, they did not completely give up their own traditional beliefs but rather created a fusion of beliefs. Therefore, while many Latin Americas believe in Jesus Christ, they also have local patron saints they worship. Latin people are also quite superstitious and often adorn their homes and cars with small altars and good luck charms.
In Latin American society, as in North American society, most public holidays revolve around the main religious festivals: Christmas (Navidad), Easter (Pascua) and All Souls Day (El dia de los muertos). The occasions of Christmas and Easter offer time off of work and school in which to celebrate or commemorate a variety of rituals surrounding the holiday. Even individuals who are not practicing Catholics may take this as a time off to enjoy time with family.
