Fortunately for readers, the author separated the significant tribes of ancient Mexico into separate chapters. I found that to be very helpful in understanding each major group. Americans tend to know more about European history than Mesoamerican history, and this book attempts to remedy that lack of info about our ancient southern neighbors.
The book covers the mythology, religions, life, and culture of the Olmecs, Maya, Zapotecs, Mixtecs, Toltecs, and Aztec civilizations. I particularly appreciated the summary at the end of most chapters, which helped readers see the "big picture" of each civilization.
I listened to this on audiotape and missed the maps and illustrations other reviewers mentioned interspersed in this book. They would have helped place the different groups mentioned. Instead, I sat at the computer and googled each civilization. The benefit of this overview is that readers can pursue more information once they understand the rich cultures of ancient Mexico.
My brother has been visiting Guatemala, where the Maya constitute a significant force. He told me an interesting fact: The Mayan women wear specific patterns in their skirts or blouses associated with their familial clan. They would never consider buying garments signifying a different clanâit just isn't done. They wear clothes that represent their clan every day.
Since he talked about the Mayans he met, I was interested in learning more about this group and the others in ancient Mexico.
The book covers the mythology, religions, life, and culture of the Olmecs, Maya, Zapotecs, Mixtecs, Toltecs, and Aztec civilizations. I particularly appreciated the summary at the end of most chapters, which helped readers see the "big picture" of each civilization.
I listened to this on audiotape and missed the maps and illustrations other reviewers mentioned interspersed in this book. They would have helped place the different groups mentioned. Instead, I sat at the computer and googled each civilization. The benefit of this overview is that readers can pursue more information once they understand the rich cultures of ancient Mexico.
My brother has been visiting Guatemala, where the Maya constitute a significant force. He told me an interesting fact: The Mayan women wear specific patterns in their skirts or blouses associated with their familial clan. They would never consider buying garments signifying a different clanâit just isn't done. They wear clothes that represent their clan every day.
Since he talked about the Mayans he met, I was interested in learning more about this group and the others in ancient Mexico.
