Crisis and Creativity in Mayan Mythology
Dec 15, 2024The Popol Vuh, written in 1702, was based on a Mayan oral tradition encompassing creation myths, history, and cosmology.
How much can we know about Mayan Mythology? Much of the Mayan way of life, along with its associated oral traditions, was wiped out by European invaders in the 16th century. But there are still Maya communities today, and we also have a few written sources, including the Popol Vuh. Many believe we can still glimpse a fascinating worldview through the beautiful stories it tells.
Here’s one of those stories: once upon a time there was a committee of gods, and they wanted to be praised. First they tried getting the animals to praise them, but all that yielded was a bunch of hoots and squawks. Then they made a person out of mud, but that guy wouldn’t hold together and just crumbled away. So next they tried making people out of wood. That worked better—in fact, they were able to build a whole civilization that way—but the people had no inner life. It took a fourth attempt for things finally to go right, as the gods made human beings out of maize. Now they were off and running, and ready to receive our praise and sacrifices.
So what are we supposed to learn from this? When it comes to myth, of course, everything tends to be a matter of interpretation. But here’s one way of looking at it: the gods were in a bit of a crisis, and they used their creativity to dig themselves out of it. Sometimes you’re faced with a really tough problem, and you have to try a bunch of different things before you get it right.
Thinking of which, here's another great story from the Popol Vuh. One day, twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque were playing a ballgame and making a bunch of noise. Their game was so noisy that it even bothered the gods of the underworld (Xibalba), who summoned the twins to explain themselves. So those boys were in a bit of a pickle—especially given that their father had been killed by exactly the same gods for exactly the same crime. Fortunately these boys were able to use their ingenuity to trick the gods of death, and not only escaped with their lives, but even got those gods to stop killing quite so many humans. How did the twins escape their pickle? The Popol Vuh puts it beautifully: “Such was the defeat of the rulers of Xibalba. The boys accomplished it only through wonders, only through self-transformation.” If we use our ingenuity, and are willing to change, we can work wonders—even in a situation of danger and crisis.
And the same thing is true, movingly enough, of the book itself. The people who wrote it were in the biggest crisis imaginable: European colonizers were decimating the population and systematically destroying their culture, to replace it with Christianity. The Popol Vuh itself records the devastation, in painfully understated words. Speaking about the Mayan leaders of the 16th century, it says “they were ruling when Tonatiuh arrived. They were tortured by the Castilian people.” (Tonatiuh is the conquistador Pedro de Alvarado.) Yet in the midst of this crisis, the authors of the Popol Vuh wrote down their own stories, using the very Latin alphabet that was intended to wipe out their history.
Even if your circumstances are tragic, there’s still a value to responding with creativity. People wrote poetry in concentration camps, and people sang songs even while enslaved. Storytelling is a way of preserving your dignity; it is a record of your existence on Earth; and your writing becomes a seed. Who knows when in the future it will sprout again?
This urge to respond to crisis with creativity is exactly what our guest has written about: it's Edgar Garcia, author of Emergency: Reading the Popol Vuh in a Time of Crisis.
Comments (15)
lakena
Tuesday, December 17, 2024 -- 1:06 AM
How does the Popol Vuh serveHow does the Popol Vuh serve as a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of cultural and existential threats, and what lessons can contemporary audiences draw from its history?
Asssilem
Tuesday, December 17, 2024 -- 7:43 PM
The essence of stories aboutThe essence of stories about gods is based on human's desire for life. This book sounds interesting. I will try to read it. Is there an online version?
darrendemers12
Thursday, December 26, 2024 -- 3:17 AM
And the same thing is true,And the same thing is true, movingly enough, of the book itself. The people who wrote it were in the biggest crisis imaginable: European colonizers were decimating the population and systematically destroying their culture, to replace it with Christianity. The Popol Vuh itself records the devastation, in painfully understated words. Speaking about the Mayan leaders of the 16th century, it says “they were ruling when Tonatiuh arrived. They were tortured by the Castilian people.” (Tonatiuh is the conquistador Pedro de Alvarado.) Yet in the midst of this crisis, the authors of the Popol Vuh wrote down their own stories, using the very Latin alphabet that was intended to wipe out their history.
Jurants
Thursday, December 26, 2024 -- 10:21 PM
Creativity is the source ofCreativity is the source of all development. With creativity and change, there is new progress.
ableathers
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 -- 12:23 AM
Nice blog! I really like yourNice blog! I really like your information.
black leather pants women
philosopher
Thursday, January 2, 2025 -- 5:43 AM
Very interesting subject,Very interesting subject, especially from the Covid-19 lockdowns perspective. I steel feel that we haven't fully realize all the psychological and social effects and implications of widespread lockdowns. I can't really explain in, but a lot of people seem to be much different than they were five years ago, before the pandemic. Metaphysician’s Diary
Charliebitson
Saturday, January 4, 2025 -- 3:22 AM
This is powerful reflectionThis is powerful reflection on the resilience of the Maya people and their ability to respond to crisis with creativity. The stories from the Popol Vuh are not just myths, but lessons about ingenuity, perseverance, and transformation. It's amazing to consider how the Maya managed to maintain their culture and identity despite almost complete destruction by employing the very instruments that were intended to eradicate them. It serves as a reminder that there is always a creative way to react, regardless of how difficult things get. Relatedly, there are businesses where you may pay someone to write my dissertation uk if you're ever having trouble with academic writing, such as a dissertation. This can help relieve the stress and guarantee that you obtain the outcomes you desire.
Thespothe
Sunday, January 5, 2025 -- 3:47 AM
The recreation of the worldThe recreation of the world is an interesting concept that inspires creativity and innovation. It reminds me of how friv games bring simple yet imaginative worlds to life, offering endless fun and engagement for all ages.
dinielligoyo
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 -- 1:49 PM
Hello! Yesterday evening, IHello! Yesterday evening, I decided to explore online gaming platforms and stumbled upon AUS88 Casino https://aus88.casino/ . This platform is a standout for its diverse game library, ranging from pokies to live casino games with real dealers. The platform's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate even for beginners. What truly impressed me was the fast withdrawal system and the generous welcome bonuses. After a few hours of playing, I not only had an enjoyable time but also walked away with significant winnings. For anyone looking for a trustworthy and fun casino experience, AUS88 Casino is a fantastic choice.
melmedarda
Friday, January 17, 2025 -- 5:29 PM
How does the story of theHow does the story of the Popol Vuh reflect the resilience and creativity of the Maya in the face of cultural destruction and colonization?
kerabon714
Wednesday, January 22, 2025 -- 8:48 PM
Setting up a business inSetting up a business in Dubai can be a seamless process with the right guidance and support. Whether you're looking to establish a free zone company or set up a mainland business, leveraging expert advice ensures compliance with legal requirements and efficient procedures. For reliable business setup services in dubai, partnering with professionals who understand the local market can make all the difference.
leviezra
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 -- 7:33 PM
This article beautifullyThis article beautifully showcases the resilience and creativity found in the Mayan mythology, especially in the Popol Vuh. It highlights how, even in the face of crisis, the gods and the people responded with ingenuity and self-transformation. The stories emphasize how creativity can be a way to overcome challenges and preserve dignity. This idea of using creative expression in difficult times is not only relevant to ancient stories but also to modern challenges. Similarly, today we can find solace and inspiration in creativity—whether it's through storytelling, music, or art. Visit this website to explore more on how platforms like RessoAPK.com allow you to engage with music and art in a way that brings peace and inspiration during challenging moments. It’s amazing how even in tough times, art and creativity continue to help us find hope and strength.
karan115
Friday, January 31, 2025 -- 11:47 PM
Google AI is Google'sGoogle AI is Google's artificial intelligence division, focused on advancing AI research, machine learning, and real-world applications. Google has been at the forefront of AI innovation, integrating it into products like Google Search, Google Assistant, and Google Cloud.
google ai
ChristopherHunt
Monday, February 3, 2025 -- 1:28 AM
If you've ever struggled withIf you've ever struggled with figuring out how to properly use or fix your equipment, you know how frustrating it can be. That’s where WARRIOR manuals come in handy. These guides break down everything into simple, understandable steps, making even the most complex tasks manageable https://warrior.manymanuals.com/ .One of the best things about WARRIOR manuals is their clarity. They don’t just throw a bunch of technical terms at you and expect you to understand. Instead, they provide step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and troubleshooting tips that make a world of difference. Whether you need to set up a new device, perform maintenance, or troubleshoot an issue, these manuals offer solutions that actually work.
anikasaxena
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 -- 3:52 AM
Great Blog Right Here! YouGreat Blog Right Here! You Seem to Put a Significant Amount of Material on the Site Rather Quickly. independent escorts in Bangalore https://in.oklute.com/call-Girls/bangalore/