Quetzalcoatl Essay Example

serpents) and a snake (coatl; representing its negative nature).

The Olmec culture, which existed from 1150 to 500 B. C., viewed "serpents" as representations of agricultural and land resources. In contrast, the Teotihuacan tribe around 200 C. E. depicted their serpent, a rattlesnake, adorned with long green feathers of Quetzal. The Maya Indians from Mexico and Central America regarded Quetzalcoatl as a symbolic serpent emerging from the sea to bring about crucifixion. From a historical and social perspective, the imagery of Quetzalcoatl presents an alternative viewpoint on creation that originated from chaos and fear while incorporating Pagan belief in gods as the primary instructors of human civilization.

According to tribes that adapted after the Teotihuacan tribe was destroyed, Quetzalcoatl has become the cultic representation of light, in contrast to the deity Tezcatlipoca, who represents evil and darkness in Mesoamerican cosmology. The myth suggests that significant human advancements in architecture, music, agriculture, and other fields have originated from their god, Quetzalcoatl. In the Xochicalco tribe (700 to 900 C.E.), Quetzalcoatl is portrayed as a human with immortality and god-like qualities. In Mayan culture, Quetzalcoatl is seen as an immortal God associated with snakes, symbolizing the cyclical renewal of spiritual and material forces through shedding. Variations of Quetzalcoatl in Aztec depictions, found in codices, carvings, and paintings, show the god adorned with distinct jewels made from conch shell, wearing a conical hat resembling a wind serpent (Ehecatl), and holding a mask facing towards the direction of the wind.

The representations of Quetzalcoatl in Mesoamerican society demonstrate the evolution of their God figure from a mythical creature rooted in pagan animism and mythology to a

human form. Various versions of the legend ascribe human attributes to Quetzalcoatl, ultimately resulting in the downfall of his rulership. In the Chichimecan version, Tezcatlipoca plots to seduce Quetzalcoatl with alcohol, leading to incest with his sister. Conversely, some scholarly accounts propose that Quetzalcoatl forcefully assumed a deity position, which ultimately led to his disgrace.

Quetzalcoatl tries to ease his guilt by sacrificing himself and as a result, his ashes rise to the sky and transform into the Morning Star, also known as the Lord of the Dawn. This name is similar to Lucifer, a Christian entity with different names. According to Fray Juan de Torquemada and some scholars, certain native tribes have worshiped Quetzalcoatl as an evil spirit. However, past archaeological research has mistakenly exaggerated the religious practices of the pre-Toltec civilization and thus contradicted these claims.

The god Quetzalcoatl is revered as a symbol of peace and illumination, connected to wisdom, advancement, and originality. The diverse portrayals and understandings of Quetzalcoatl have greatly influenced the history and community of Mesoamerican cultures. Discoveries in the Teotihuacan basin in Mexico suggest that reverence for Quetzalcoatl was present even during the Olmec civilization prior to 800 B.C., and persisted until 300 A.D.

Originating in Xochicalco, Morelos around 800 A.D., the cult of Quetzalcoatl was later introduced to Toltec Tula by the priest-kings. It gradually extended its influence to Mexico's eastern and southern highlands, as well as the Yucatan Peninsula and Guatemala. Pre-Toltec cultures and Mesoamerican tribes acknowledged the significance of Quetzalcoatl in their society. This cult's reach even encompassed Ancient Olmec society before spreading throughout Latin America.

The strong devotion of the

ancient Aztecs to their Quetzalcoatl cult practices eventually resulted in the Spanish colonization. Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl, a political and religious Aztec priest, played a crucial role in connecting Tula of Mayans, Teotihuacan, and Xochicalco. Ancient collections of Toltec history frequently mention the priest king's role in the establishment of Toltec civilization. Archaeological evidence examining the identity of Topiltzin does not definitively determine whether he is depicted as the god or Quetzalcoatl in Ancient Mesoamerican texts and images.

According to historical accounts, Topiltzin transformed Toltec society from a nomadic civilization to a civilized one by embracing Toltec culture and religious customs. However, critics analyzing historical evidence suggest that the natives' belief in Quetzalcoatl's return gave the advantage to the Spaniards, led by Hernan Cortez, when entering Veracruz. The legend of Quetzalcoatl included the promise of God's return in the year of Ce Acatl (One Reed), which happened every 52 years.

By pure chance, Cortez arrived on the day known as Ce Acatl in February 1519. This gave him a significant psychological advantage over the followers of the Quetzalcoatl legend. When Cortez and his Spanish companions arrived, they were warmly received by the Olmec society, led by Montezuma II. Little did they know of the foreigners' true intentions, as their expectations of the legend's fulfillment overshadowed any suspicions. The Toltec society also unexpectedly supported the Spanish friars' goals and aims of spreading Christian teachings and enforcing their theology. During pre-Columbian times, the Spanish religious expansion was their main objective.

Legend has it that Quetzalcoatl, because of the disgrace caused by the Spanish friars' brigade and his attempts to establish his own cult, had to ascend

to the heavenly realms and turn into the planet Venus. From Colonial World to Contemporary times, the legend of Quetzalcoatl has always represented Mexican oppression and exile. Quetzalcoatl's belief in rebirth and immortality embodies the Mesoamerican culture's desire for a return to its Golden Age, giving hope for their ultimate victory.

The Spanish conquest of Mesoamerican societies resulted in the rise of Neo-Mayas, who were influenced by both the pagan Quetzalcoatl cult and Christianity. These Neo-Mayas created their own native iconography that connected Quetzalcoatl with "Jesus Christo." This blending of beliefs showcases syncretism between Mesoamerican cosmological myths and Christianity. The Spanish also associated Quetzalcoatl with St. Thomas, an interpretation that was subsequently embraced by Mexican societies, including the Chicanos.

The significance of the representation of Quetzalcoatl is notable for both Latin Americans and cult followers. This is demonstrated through elaborate costumes and indigenous rituals. During social celebrations, the priest-king effectively conveys the essence of Quetzalcoatl as a feathered serpent through his attire. The typical depiction of Quetzalcoatl involves a priest with a black body, adorned with black, red, and gold face paint. The legend of Quetzalcoatl has played a crucial role in understanding the societal progress of Mesoamerican civilizations, from ancient Toltec lineage to present-day Neo-Mayans.

The legendary hero and mythical feathered bird, Quetzalcoatl, is connected to various aspects of Mesoamerican civilization. These include agriculture, calendar-making, writing, astronomy, astrology, medicine, trade, commerce, and arts. Archeological evidence shows that the Toltec had a significant influence on Mayan societies. This influence extended to social practices, religious beliefs, trade activities, and cultural changes due to their close relationship with their deity. The impact of the

Toltec on Mayan societies can be seen in Nahuatl texts and ancient manuscripts. Furthermore, the legend of Quetzalcoatl contributes to the idea of dualistic yet monotheistic divine perspectives in Mesoamerican cultures.

The Quetzalcoatl myth is highly important in present-day Mexican society as it represents the ancestral heritage of Mexico passed down through generations. The symbols associated with Quetzalcoatl, such as culture, divinity, and traditions, have had a deep influence on modern Mesoamerican culture. Ultimately, I deeply admire the godlike status of Quetzalcoatl, particularly for possessing the valuable long green feathers of a Quetzalli serpent creature.

Legend has it that the deity was once a human who achieved heroic status and came to be revered as a god. Quetzalcoatl, also referred to as Morning Star and Lord of the Dawn, holds great importance in Mesoamerican communities. Originating from the Toltec era, Quetzalcoatl now symbolizes culture, enlightenment, peace, and civilization. Archaeological studies have demonstrated the impact of Quetzalcoatl's teachings on the Spanish conquerors led by H. Cortez.

The Mesoamerican civilization's Indians celebrated the anticipated comeback of Quetzalcoatl in a specific year. Nevertheless, Cortez coincidentally arrived in Veracruz during that time. Over time, this myth has associated with different Christian figures like St. Thomas and Jesus Christ, blending the pagan god with Catholicism. Mexican society, especially Chicanos, have recognized Quetzalcoatl's significance both historically and religiously and its influence on the growth of Mesoamerican cultures.