Aztec Account, 1st Meeting
By: Angeleena Prince

Who wrote the it? Why?

Author: Bernardino de Sahagún

The account is found in the Florentine Codex, Book 12, Chapter 16. It was written to show the first contact between the Aztecs and the Spaniards in 1519 from the point of view of the native Aztecs.

How does the author communicate ideas?

The author uses a combination of narrative techniques, dialogue, symbolism, and descriptive language to effectively communicate the ideas and events surrounding the first meeting between Moctezuma and Cortés.

What are the big ideas?

The biggest idea shown through the account is that the encounter between Moctezuma and Cortés serves as a symbol of the larger cultural meeting between the indigenous Aztec people and the Spanish colonizers. It illustrates the clash of worldviews, languages, and cultural norms, as well as the initial curiosity, respect, and uncertainty.

What ideas are left out?

An idea that was left out was the political or military strategies of either side. It does not discuss Cortes' intentions or the broader geopolitical context in which this encounter took place.

Whose perspective does it reflect?

The passage primarily reflects Moctezuma's perspective as it captures his words during the encounter with Cortes. Moctezuma's curiosity, uncertainty, and respect are evident in his words and actions.

Whose perspectives are omitted/questioned/challenged?

The passage mainly presents Cortés' perspective, but it does not delve into the perspectives of other Spanish conquistadors who accompanied him on the expedition. They may have had different opinions, motivations, and expectations regarding the encounter with the Aztecs.

Which questions can this source help me answer? Which can it not?

Can answer:

How did Moctezuma perceive Cortes and the Spanish crusaders?
What role did La Malinche play in facilitating communication between Moctezuma and Cortes?

Can't answer:

What were the motivations and objectives of Hernan Cortes and the Spanish crusaders in their expedition to Mexico?
What were the long-term consequences of this meeting and the Spanish conquest of Mexico?

Result in change

It resulted in change because the meeting marked a critical point in Spanish exploration and expansion into the Americas.

Revealing the past

The account provides insights into the cultural practices and customs of the Aztecs during the early 16th century. It describes the rituals of greeting, the exchange of gifts, and the expressions of respect and reverence that were part of Aztec court protocol. It also highlights cultural differences, language barriers, and differing belief systems.