SJS Unit 8: The Aztec Empire: Art and Culture

Source: Smith, Michael E. "The Aztec Empire: Art and Culture." Veranda 19.1 (2005): 36-46. Print. 

Author Credentials: Michael Smith is a freelance photographer. He received education at Yale University School of Art, The College for Creative Studies, and the New York Studio Program. He has had many exhibitions in famous areas and is knowledgeable in art.

Summary: This article describes the culture of the Aztecs through their artwork. The author begins by explaining the Aztecs were eventually conquered by the Spanish because of their gold jewelry and art. The articles states that it is difficult to find an exact account of Aztec culture because they are described differently by different people. It is believed, however, that some Aztec artwork was used in ceremonies and rituals. An example of this would be masks that the Aztecs made for their dead.

Analysis: The article describes how Aztec artwork was important to them, and how it was possibly their downfall. It also relates to class discussion in two ways. In class we learned about the Spanish conquest in Latin America, and how the Spaniards were greedy for treasure. We also learned that the Aztecs had brutal traditions, such as human sacrifices. These traditions may be why there is such a diversity in Aztec descriptions; some people will see the Aztecs as barbaric because of this and others will see them as highly cultured people. In conclusion, the article is well-written and helpful to those who are curious about how Aztec artwork related to these people's culture.