The Mythology of Mexico and Central America

In this expansive volume, John Bierhorst brings to light the gods and heroes of pre-Columbian times—and demonstrates that they are very much alive today. The book provides translations of twenty "basic myths," showing how these have influenced the artistic, literary, and political life of modern Mexico and Central America. Originally published in 1990, the text has been updated to reflect recent advances in Mesoamerican studies. In addition, a new Afterword describes how these native mytholog…