72 pages 2 hours read

Anonymous

Popol Vuh

Nonfiction | Scripture | Adult | Published in 1554

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Popol Vuh is a sacred text of the Quiché people, blending mythology, folklore, and history. It recounts creation stories, beginning with deities forming the world and creating humans after several attempts. Important events include the heroic deeds of twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque, who eventually establish celestial bodies in the sky and ensure continuity through divine favor, leading the Quiché people to establish their civilization and territories in various regions. The narrative tracks their expansion, divine interventions, and eventual settlement, culminating in the division into lordships and their enduring legacy despite the Spanish colonization. Sensitive topics include depictions of death and colonial violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Popol Vuh, an anonymous work, receives high praise for its rich depiction of Mayan mythology and history. It is lauded for its poetic narrative and cultural insights. However, some readers find it challenging due to its complex structure and archaic language. Ideal for those interested in indigenous literature and pre-Columbian civilizations.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Popol Vuh?

A reader who enjoys Popol Vuh by Anonymous likely has a keen interest in mythology, pre-Columbian history, and ancient civilizations. This text is ideal for those captivated by the oral traditions and cosmology of the Maya, akin to readers of The Epic of Gilgamesh and The Odyssey for their epic storytelling and cultural insights.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Religion / Spirituality

Education

Anthropology

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Genre

Education

Anthropology

Fantasy