The Broken Spears: a Summary and Analysis

The Broken Spears is a historical account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico, written by Miguel Leon-Portilla. The book provides a unique perspective on the events leading up to and following the fall of the Aztec empire, as it is based on indigenous sources rather than Spanish accounts. In this essay, we will provide a summary of The Broken Spears, analyze its significance, and discuss the impact of its portrayal of the conquest on our understanding of history.

Summary of The Broken Spears

The Broken Spears begins with an

Introduction

by Leon-Portilla, in which he explains the methodology and sources used in the book. He emphasizes the importance of using indigenous accounts to understand the conquest from the perspective of the conquered rather than the conquerors. The book is divided into five parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the conquest.

In the first part, "The Great City of Tenochtitlan," Leon-Portilla provides a detailed description of the Aztec capital and its society. He describes the city's layout, the role of religion and human sacrifice, and the political structure of the empire. This section sets the stage for the events that follow, giving readers a sense of the rich and complex civilization that the Spanish encountered.

The second part, "The Invasion," details the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernan Cortes, and their initial interactions with the Aztecs. The indigenous accounts reveal the confusion and fear that the Spanish incited, as well as the attempts by the Aztec ruler, Moctezuma, to diplomatically deal with the newcomers. The Spanish eventually betray Moctezuma's trust and take him hostage, leading to a violent uprising by the Aztecs.

Part three, "The Night of Sorrows," chronicles the Spanish retreat from Tenochtitlan and the subsequent massacre of their forces by the Aztecs. Leon-Portilla presents the indigenous perspective on these events, highlighting the bravery and determination of the Aztec warriors in driving out the invaders. This section challenges the traditional narrative of the conquest as a swift and easy victory for the Spanish.

In part four, "The Fatal Mistake," Leon-Portilla discusses the Spanish retribution against the Aztecs and their allies, as well as the devastating smallpox epidemic that ravaged the indigenous population. The accounts of these events provide a harrowing portrayal of the suffering and destruction caused by the conquest.

The final part, "The Agony of a Civilization," reflects on the aftermath of the conquest and the enduring impact on the indigenous people of Mexico. Leon-Portilla highlights the resilience of the surviving Aztecs and their efforts to preserve their culture and traditions in the face of Spanish oppression and assimilation.

Analysis of The Broken Spears

The Broken Spears offers a powerful and evocative portrayal of the Spanish conquest of Mexico from the perspective of the conquered. By centering indigenous voices and experiences, Leon-Portilla challenges the dominant Eurocentric narrative of the conquest and exposes the brutality and devastation wrought by the Spanish invaders. The book humanizes the Aztecs and other indigenous peoples, presenting them as complex and multifaceted societies rather than primitive or barbaric civilizations.

One of the most significant aspects of The Broken Spears is its emphasis on the agency and resistance of the indigenous people. The book highlights the bravery and resilience of the Aztecs in the face of overwhelming odds, challenging the notion of their passive acceptance of Spanish domination. Additionally, the accounts of the smallpox epidemic and its catastrophic impact on the indigenous population shed light on the devastating consequences of European diseases on the New World.

Furthermore, The Broken Spears serves as a critique of the Spanish conquest and colonization of Mexico, exposing the violence, greed, and cultural imperialism of the conquistadors. Leon-Portilla's use of indigenous sources provides a counter-narrative to the glorification of conquest and colonization, offering a more nuanced and critical perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

Impact of The Broken Spears on Historical Understanding

The Broken Spears has had a profound impact on our understanding of the Spanish conquest of Mexico and its aftermath. By centering indigenous voices and experiences, the book has challenged traditional narratives of conquest and colonization, prompting scholars and the public to reevaluate their perspectives on this pivotal period in history.

Leon-Portilla's use of indigenous sources has also inspired a greater appreciation for the value of non-Western perspectives in historical scholarship. The book has encouraged historians to seek out and incorporate marginalized voices and narratives in their research, leading to a more inclusive and diverse understanding of the past.

Furthermore, The Broken Spears has sparked important conversations about the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing impact of the conquest on modern-day Mexico. The book has contributed to a greater awareness of the enduring effects of European colonization on indigenous communities, as well as the importance of recognizing and preserving indigenous cultures and traditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Broken Spears offers a powerful and compelling account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico from the perspective of the conquered. By centering indigenous voices and experiences, the book challenges traditional narratives of conquest and colonization, humanizes the Aztecs and other indigenous peoples, and exposes the violence and devastation wrought by the Spanish invaders. The book has had a profound impact on our understanding of this pivotal moment in history, inspiring a more critical and inclusive approach to the study of the past.