So yesterday was so hot Bill and I decided to flee my aunt's house and go spend the afternoon in the shade in the park. Which ended up being very nice as there was a strong wind and I ended up quite cold! While we were there I read the book on Mesoamerican mythology that I bought at the British Museum for £3! (A savings of £15!) The book Tales of the Plumed Serpent; Aztec, Inca and Mayan Myths by Diana Ferguson is beautifully illustrated with pictures of places, artifacts, and pictures of the stories. Definitely the prettiest book on this mythology I have. In addition to the myths she also gave backgrounds on the cultures, and sidebars about events in the stories, eg, hallucinogens, sacrifice, calenders, etc.
Ferguson also tells the stories very well, they sound pretty without being over the top and still contain all the gory details. The Mayan stories are mainly from the Popul Vol but were still told well enough to re-read. The selections of Inca and Aztec myths I wasn't so familiar with. However the Aztec myth about the origin of Tequila might be one of the most beautiful myths I've ever read. The God came across as so concerned about his people and the end result was brilliant. Definitely a well worthwhile purchase and a lovely way to spend a hot afternoon.
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