Literatura Prehispánica o Precolombina: Historia/Características/Principales culturas

Introduction to Pre-Columbian Literature

Overview of the Topic

• A warm greeting introduces the discussion on the history of literature, focusing on ancient times and key characteristics of literary works. The speaker hopes viewers enjoy the video.

Definition and Context

• Pre-Hispanic literature encompasses all literary creations before Spanish arrival in America, also known as pre-Columbian literature, marking a significant cultural period prior to Christopher Columbus's arrival.

• Much of this literature was transmitted orally due to the absence of a writing system among many cultures, making it challenging to trace its origins after many works were destroyed post-conquest.

Themes and Characteristics

• Religious themes are prevalent as these civilizations were polytheistic, equating deities with nature and the universe; other important topics include astronomy, war, agriculture, and mythology related to rulers' origins.

• Most texts are not original but reinterpretations influenced by Catholicism and Spanish culture; oral transmission led to potential distortions over time. Additionally, most works lack identifiable authorship as they belonged collectively to communities.

Key Civilizations: Maya, Aztec, Inca

Maya Civilization

• The Maya civilization thrived in present-day southeastern Mexico and Central America from 750 BC to 950 AD; their language was Maya with a sophisticated writing system using ideograms and phonograms for preserving historical legacy through prose texts.

• Major themes included world creation; poetry was less developed while theater consisted mainly of ritual dances and songs; four significant Mayan codices remain today awaiting interpretation: Madrid Codex, Codex 3D, Paris Codex, Roger Codex.

• The Popol Vuh is a notable work compiling mythical narratives from Guatemalan Mayans that reflects their rich cultural heritage.

Aztec Civilization

• The Aztecs (or Mexica), flourishing between 2000 BC and 1521 AD in central Mexico with Nahuatl as their language, excelled particularly in poetry aimed at preserving knowledge across generations with themes including medicine, history, law, religion, rituals alongside violent divine struggles.

• Their poetic expressions served both artistic purposes and esoteric understanding of existence while prose had educational aims; theatrical performances involved ritual dances accompanied by songs reflecting societal values.

Inca Civilization

• The Inca Empire spanned modern Peru and surrounding countries from 1438 AD to 1536 AD without a formal writing system; knowledge was passed down orally while poetry focused on religion, mythology, war stories along with agrarian themes memorized for generational transfer.

• They created prayers and hymns praising deities performed during public dances often featuring one or two actors; "Ollanta" is highlighted as a recognized dramatic work despite uncertainties about its origin.

Conclusion