The Myth of Quetzalcoatl

In this comprehensive study, Enrique Florescano traces the spread of the worship of the Plumed Serpent, and the multiplicity of interpretations that surround the god, by comparing the Palenque inscriptions (c. AD 690), the Vienna Codex (pre-Hispanic conquest) the "Historia de los Mexicanos" (1531), the "Popul Vuh" (c. 1554) and numerous other texts. He also consults and reproduces archaeological evidence from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua, demonstrating how the myth of Quetzalcoatl extends throughout Mesoamerica.

Table of Contents:
Preface and Acknowledgements Introduction Chapter 1. The Diverse Manifestations of the Divinity Chapter 2. Ce Acatl Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl: The Hero Chapter 3. Interpretations Chapter 4. Toward a New Interpretation of the Myth of Quetzalcoatl Chapter 5. The Children of the Mother Goddess: Dumuzi, Tammuz, Osiris, Adonis, Persephone, and Quetzalcoatl Epilogue Notes Bibliography Index

About the Author :
Enrique Florescano is director of the National Coordination of Historical Projects, an agency of the National Council of Culture and Arts in Mexico. His many books include Memoria mexicana; Memoria indigena; Etnia, Estado y nacion; and La bandera mexicana.

Review :
Florescano... has amassed a wealth of information on the history and cultural significance of Quetzalcoatl. His well-written and scholarly study, nicely translated by Hochroth, presents thorough research into both the archeological record and pre-Hispanic and Spanish written accounts. His in-depth analysis also provides comparisons between Quetzalcoatl and the prehistoric vegetation gods of Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean... Fascinating. Library Journal Florescano has written an outstanding work, synthesizing highly complex data from many sources... A brilliant introduction to the underlying themes of Mesoamerican religion, from 1200 BC to the Spanish invasion, and can be read with profit by all those interested in the mental systems of some of the world's most fascinating civilizations. -- Michael D. Coe Times Higher Education Supplement Florescano's reconstruction and analysis of the mythical narratives dealing with Quetzalcoatl and its equivalent manifestations result in a fascinating account of how myths simultaneously describe, make sense of, and prescribe practices and beliefs, retaining an adaptability that allows for new articulations as historical changes take place. -- Osvaldo Pardo Revista De Estudios Hispanicos A rich and provocative work which will stimulate interest in a central topic of American studies. -- Gordon Brotherston Journal of Latin American Studies