The Popol Vuh: The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of the Kichés of Central America

Name: The Popol Vuh: The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of the Kichés of Central America
Author: Lewis Spence

By Lewis Spence

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Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

A sequence of K'iche' Maya narratives recounts cosmic origins, the actions of creator deities, and successive experiments to fashion humanity—culminating in people formed from maize—followed by a cycle of hero-saga episodes in which culture heroes undertake trials, confront the underworld, and transform the world. The final sections shift toward genealogical and chronicle material, blending mythic tale, ritual imagery, and ancestral history to explain social order, ritual practice, and communal identity.

About the Author

Lewis Spence

Lewis Spence was a Scottish author and historian, recognized for his extensive work on mythology and folklore. He contributed significantly to the understanding of various cultural myths through his writings. Among his notable works is "An Introduction to Mythology," which serves as a comprehensive guide to the myths of different civilizations. Spence's exploration of legends spans various regions, including Europe and the Americas, with titles such as "Myths and Legends of Ancient Egypt" and "The Popol Vuh: The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of the Kichés of Central America." His scholarship has enriched the literary heritage of mythological studies.