Mesoamerican Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs of Mexico and Central America

Continuity and invention characterize Mesoamerican mythic tradition. Some contemporary themes have endured relatively unchanged for thousands of years, others have appeared as new inventions drawing on older traditions. Many myths since the Spanish conquest in 1521 combine essential elements of both indigenous traditions and Christianity in a way that expressess simultaneously their close links with the past and ability to creatively adapt to new situations and demands.; This text explores a wide variety of Mesoamerican myths and mythic themes from the Paleoindian era (circa 25,000 years ago) to the 20th century. They range from those belonging to pre-Conquest rulers, traders and midwives to contemporary peasants, rebels and their saints.