The gods and symbols of ancient Mexico and the Maya : an illustrated dictionary of Mesoamerican religion

by Mary Ellen Miller

Other authorsKarl A. Taube
Paper Book, 1993

Status

Available

Call number

299.784

Collection

Publication

New York : Thames and Hudson, 1993.

Description

The Gods and Symbols of Ancient Mexico and the Maya is the first-ever English-language dictionary of Mesoamerican mythology and religion. Nearly 300 entries, from accession to yoke, describe the main gods and symbols of the Olmecs, Zapotecs, Maya, Teotihuacanos, Mixtecs, Toltecs, and Aztecs. Topics range from jaguar and jester gods to reptile eye and rubber, from creation accounts and sacred places to ritual practices such as bloodletting, confession, dance, and pilgrimage. In addition, two introductory essays provide succinct accounts of Mesoamerican history and religion, while a substantial bibliographical survey directs the reader to original sources and recent discussions. Dictionary entries are illustrated with photographs and specially commissioned line drawings. Mary Miller and Karl Taube draw on their research in the fast-changing field of Maya studies, and on the latest Mexican discoveries, to produce an authoritative work that will serve as a standard reference for students, scholars, and travelers.… (more)

User reviews

LibraryThing member thehideflibrarian
I'm on a Mayan history kick, thanks to customers who've asked material about the Mayan calendar. The Maya said the universe would be destroyed in 2012. We'll see...

Language

Original publication date

1993

Physical description

216 p.; 25 inches

ISBN

0500050686 / 9780500050682

Local notes

SS

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