Lectures on the Origin and Growth of Religion as Illustrated by the Native Religions of Mexico and Peru

A comparative series of lectures examines indigenous religions of Central America and the Andean region, tracing common foundations and regional variations. It describes sacred architecture and ritual practice, notably stepped pyramidal temples, public processions, offerings, and recurrent solar and lunar observances. The narrative analyzes pantheons and myths, the prominence of empire-guardian deities, systems of human and symbolic sacrifice, ascetic and communal religious institutions, and the structure of the priesthood. It outlines native cosmogonies and eschatologies alongside methods of administration and record keeping that linked religion to political authority. The treatment concludes by surveying the disruption and transformation of these cults under conquest and missionary conversion.