THE PORTABLE COUNTRY HISTORICAL NOVEL AS A RESOURCE FOR THE STUDY OF THE 19TH AND 20TH CENTURIES

Abstract

The purpose of this essay-style article is to reflect on the use of literary works, such as historical novels, to activate real knowledge. Literary competence intervenes not only in the construction of textual meaning but also in the process of evaluating and analyzing texts, with a view to forming civic awareness. In this regard, the literary work "País Portátil" (Portable Country) is analyzed. It examines the historical events that energized Venezuela's republican life during the 19th and 20th centuries, addressing sociopolitical contradictions, recurrent militarism, and its impact on Venezuelan politics. Based on the theoretical review and analysis of the work, it has been concluded that this strategy contributes theories and establishes basic descriptive and functional principles for an approach that incorporates elements of literature into history teaching, allowing for the delimitation and definition of real learning objectives. As a result, it is demanded that the use of historical novels to teach about past events and occurrences allow for a deeper understanding of these events, promoting student ownership of their history, which contributes to the development of their identity. Finally, the role of the teacher is reflected upon, who must develop effective planning that guarantees constant support and sustained guidance, with the aim of achieving the stated educational goal: fostering the construction of Venezuelan historical awareness.