LA LITERATURA PREHISPÁNICA | CAP. 1 | LI 4° DE SECUNDARIA

New Section

In this section, the speaker introduces the topic of pre-Hispanic literature, specifically focusing on the Incas and other civilizations in America before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492.

Introduction to Pre-Hispanic Literature

• The pre-Hispanic era refers to the time in America before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492. Notable civilizations during this period were located in Peru and Mexico.

• The Incas, known for structures like Machu Picchu, had a passion for storytelling. They passed down stories through generations, focusing on themes like motivation, authority, and life on earth.

• Inca literature primarily revolved around tales related to land and agricultural work. These stories were anonymous and divided into two forms: official (imposed by the court) and popular (comprising poems or songs reflecting community sentiments).

Literary Genres in Pre-Hispanic Cultures

• Similar to music genres, Quechua literature had distinct genres such as epic (myths and legends), drama (potentially theatrical works), and lyricism (poems expressing joy or love).

• Quechua lyrical works often focused on rural elements like land, crops, and domestic animals. They included joyful hymns dedicated to gods alongside tender love poems.

Exploring Mayan and Aztec Literature

This part delves into Mayan and Aztec literary traditions, highlighting their unique characteristics within pre-Hispanic literature.

Mayan Literature

• Mayan literature featured extensive prose texts considered sacred. Reserved for priests and nobles due to their complexity, these texts emphasized religious themes rather than fiction or adventure.

• Aztec literary culture favored poetry recited with musical accompaniment. Poets like King Netzahualcoyotl excelled in various literary genres within Nahuatl language.

Quiz on Incan Literature