Homi Bhabha’s Theory of Hybridity Applied to the Mudéjar Style of Architecture in Andalusian Sites
Location
Daseke Room (Hoover)
Start Date
29-4-2026 9:10 AM
End Date
29-4-2026 10:10 AM
Item Type
Paper Session
Description
This project explores the application of Homi Bhabha’s theory of hybridity within post-Reconquista Andalusia. Bhabha defines hybridity as the cultural and artistic forms that emerge after a violent shift in power, while his concept of the “third space” describes the in-between space where two distinct identities interact to produce new expressions. Previous studies on architecture from post-Reconquista Andalusia have thoroughly acknowledged the culture’s plurality, however, examining these sites through theories of hybridity and power can help to pose new questions about the impact of historic power dynamics on Andalusian art and architecture. Following the Reconquista, Christian rule was imposed over the formerly Muslim territories of Al-Ándalus, creating conditions for cultural blending. This paper argues that the mudéjar style of architecture which emerged following the Reconquista reflects this hybridity through its combination of Christian structural elements with Islamic artistic and decorative styles, essentially forming a “third space” that embodies both traditions. Using a comparative visual and historical analysis, this project examines key sites such as the Real Alcázar of Seville, the Cathedral of Seville, and the Alhambra in Granada. These examples demonstrate how hybrid forms emerged from unequal power dynamics while preserving elements of both cultures. Ultimately, this paper expands Bhabha’s theory by showing that hybridity is not limited to colonial settings but is also essential for understanding cultural production and artifacts within modern Spain.
Homi Bhabha’s Theory of Hybridity Applied to the Mudéjar Style of Architecture in Andalusian Sites
Daseke Room (Hoover)
This project explores the application of Homi Bhabha’s theory of hybridity within post-Reconquista Andalusia. Bhabha defines hybridity as the cultural and artistic forms that emerge after a violent shift in power, while his concept of the “third space” describes the in-between space where two distinct identities interact to produce new expressions. Previous studies on architecture from post-Reconquista Andalusia have thoroughly acknowledged the culture’s plurality, however, examining these sites through theories of hybridity and power can help to pose new questions about the impact of historic power dynamics on Andalusian art and architecture. Following the Reconquista, Christian rule was imposed over the formerly Muslim territories of Al-Ándalus, creating conditions for cultural blending. This paper argues that the mudéjar style of architecture which emerged following the Reconquista reflects this hybridity through its combination of Christian structural elements with Islamic artistic and decorative styles, essentially forming a “third space” that embodies both traditions. Using a comparative visual and historical analysis, this project examines key sites such as the Real Alcázar of Seville, the Cathedral of Seville, and the Alhambra in Granada. These examples demonstrate how hybrid forms emerged from unequal power dynamics while preserving elements of both cultures. Ultimately, this paper expands Bhabha’s theory by showing that hybridity is not limited to colonial settings but is also essential for understanding cultural production and artifacts within modern Spain.