How did the hummingbird become the symbol of the chief Aztec god? Who were the Hero Twins? Why was Venus the planet of war? Did the Maya practise human sacrifice? And did they eat their victims? Who played the ancient ball game? Who were the first consumers of chocolate? What was a war of flowers? The legends and beliefs of the great pre-Columbian civilizations of Mesoamerica have baffled and fascinated outsiders ever since the Spanish Conquest. Yet; until now; no single-volume introduction has existed to act as a guide to this labyrinthine symbolic world. This book is the first-ever English-language dictionary of Mesoamerican mythology and religion. Nearly 300 entries; from "accession" to "yoke"; describe the main deities; motifs and practices of the Olmecs; Zapotecs; Maya; Teotihuacanos; Mixtecs; Toltecs and Aztecs. Introductory essays provide succinct accounts of Mesoamerican history and religion; while a substantial bibliography details original sources and recent discussions. Entries are illustrated with photographs and newly commissioned line drawings. Mary Miller is Professor of History of Art at Yale University. She is the author of "The Art of Mesoamerica" (1986) and co-author; with Linda Schele; of "The Blood of Kings" (1992); both published by Thames and Hudson. Karl Taube is Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology; University of California at Riverside.
#345390 in Books Brooks 2007-01-24 2007-01-24Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.25 x .80 x 6.38l; 1.03 #File Name: 0495004758352 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great Book!By CurmudgeonThis is a very well written; clear and well organized book on the many issues that affect the helping professions in relation to institutionalized racism. I am a graduate clinical social work student and this was one of my favorite books this year. It is not whine-y; it is well researched; and it was a fascinating and sometimes amazing read. It was great to read and become informed about racism while working with people from many different backgrounds. Even though I was very well versed in the subject beforehand; the way the book presented up to date research and ideas made it an unexpectedly great read.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. There is so much to say about this amazing book! I purchased it for a cultural competency ...By MarivetteThere is so much to say about this amazing book! I purchased it for a cultural competency course with MCU for my midwifery studies. It's a great book that teaches about white privilege; racism; and what professionals can do to work with a culturally diverse population.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I bought this book used and it had a tear ...By ConnormckI bought this book used and it had a tear on the outer cover. Also the pages were warped and this book is definitely interesting; but I don't fully agree with it. Take it with a grain of salt and test it out for yourself.
