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The Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1959

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Book Brief

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Miguel León-Portilla

The Broken Spears

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1959
Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Mexico • 16th Century

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Broken Spears by Miguel León-Portilla reorients the narrative of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire from the perspective of the Indigenous Peoples. The book provides a primer on Aztec society before the arrival of the Spaniards, describes initial interactions and conflicts culminating in the fall of Tenochtitlan, and covers the aftermath of the war, including mournful poems written by the Aztecs. The text includes distressing scenes of violence, war, and colonial oppression.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Informative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,292 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of The Broken Spears by Miguel León-Portilla often praise its impactful retelling of the Spanish conquest of Mexico from the indigenous perspective, highlighting its historical significance and emotional depth. However, some critics find the translation and annotations occasionally inadequate, suggesting a need for more contextual clarity. Overall, it remains a powerful, essential read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Broken Spears?

A reader who would enjoy The Broken Spears by Miguel León-Portilla is fascinated by indigenous perspectives on historical events, particularly in contrast to dominant Western narratives. Fans of Howard Zinn’s A People's History of the United States or Dee Brown's Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee will find this book deeply engaging and enlightening.

4.3

4,292 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Motecuhzoma II

The tlatoani (king) of the Aztecs who was in power when the Spaniards arrived in the New World. He faced the challenge of responding to the arrival and actions of the Spanish conquistadors.

One of the initial Spanish conquistadors who played a key role in the downfall of the Aztec empire. He is sometimes depicted with contrasting characteristics depending on the perspective: either as a harsh conqueror or a skilled leader.

A Spanish conquistador and trusted lieutenant of Cortés known for his role in leading a violent assault on Aztec celebrants during a significant festival.

The final Aztec king who took the throne after his predecessor's death. He is known for his role during the last days of resistance against the Spanish conquest.

The brother of Motecuhzoma who became king following Motecuhzoma’s death and challenged the Spanish presence in Tenochtitlan.

A Tezcoco prince who allied with the Spanish forces and adopted Christianity during the conquest.

A native woman who served as a crucial interpreter for Cortés, bridging communication between the Spanish and Indigenous peoples.

The author of a significant historical account of the Tlaxcaltecas, he offers insights into the Aztecs' Indigenous rivals during Spanish colonization.

A Franciscan friar who compiled vital historical documentation from native Nahua informants, providing an essential source of information about pre-Columbian Mesoamerican culture.

Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Mexico • 16th Century

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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