Introduction
In 1519, Spanish explorer Hernan Cortés left Cuba looking for riches in the islands to the west. What he found was one of the greatest civilizations on earth, the Aztec Empire. This module explores recent historiographical debates about Cortés and the conquest of Mexico.
Reading Assignment
First, you are to watch Michael Wood's documentary, Conquistadors: The Fall of the Aztecs, and familiarize yourself with the traditional narrative he tells. (The video is available at the bottom of this page).
Second, you are to read Camilla Townsend's essay, "Burying the White Gods," and examine her criticism of the traditional narrative.
Third, you are to write a 750-word essay exploring Townsend's criticism of the traditional narrative. Do you find her analysis convincing?
Resources
Website: Conquistadors with Michael Wood [ html ]
Reading: Camilla Townsend, “Burying the White Gods” [ pdf ]
Reading: An Aztec Account of the Conquest [ html ]
Reading: Hernan Cortés: Second Letter to Charles V, 1520 [ html ]
Reading: Moctezuma's Greeting to Hernan Cortes [ html ]
Map: Route of Cortés [ map ] AND Map: Tenochtitlan and Surrounding Area [ map ]
Writing Assignment
Write a 750-word essay exploring Townsend's criticism of the traditional narrative. Do you find her analysis convincing?
Due Date
- 750-word review due: See Course Schedule
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