How to Study Aztec Arts

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:AztecArts
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How to Study Aztec Arts

Introduction

The Aztec arts, which included poetry, visual art, music, dance and tattooing traditions, are a vital part of the study of Aztec culture. As in most cultures, you can learn about the values and the history of a culture by closely examining the art that has been left behind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1

Step One

Read Aztec poetry, which was recited to missionaries by the Aztec people, with the hopes of saving pieces of the Aztec culture. Often times these poems were used as guides for social and cultural behavior as well as praise for the gods, which could later be put to music for ceremonial purposes.
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Step Two

Appreciate that the various Aztec arts were used to convey meaning about religion and warfare. These were a means for the Aztec people to communicate with their gods on a daily basis and at times of celebration. A great resource for this is Aztec Arts by Esther Pasztory.
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Step Three

Search for Aztec visual art such as paintings on temple walls, pottery from an archeological site and masks used in religious ceremonies. These will often include pieces decorated with pieces of gold, jade and turquoise.
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Step Four

Attend Aztec festivals and exhibits. These are great places to hear Aztec music, see Aztec dance and have exposure to Aztec culture.
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Step Five

Recognize that Aztec tattoos were a means of showing regard for different gods, especially the sun god, Huitzilopochtli, and the god of warriors, Tezcatlipoca. Aztec tattoos were also a way to show loyalty to a specific Aztec tribe, as well as rank within that tribe.
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Step Six

Compare the arts of the Aztecs to that of the Olmecs and the Toltecs, both cultures that predated the Aztec culture and were very influential in the arts of the Aztecs.

Tips & Warnings

  • For an up close and personal Aztec experience, plan a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. You can visit Aztec ruins, as well as visit museums and festivals in the area.
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