A Scattering of Jades: Stories, Poems, and Prayers of the Aztecs [Paperback]

T.j. Knab (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 13, 1994

Long before Europeans came to America, the Aztecs were flourishing, creating a unique culture based on myth and a love of language. To the Aztecs, an elegant turn of phrase was like a precious stone. This work is an anthology of the best of Aztec literature, including myths and narratives, poems and proverbs. These selections depict the reality of this ancient people: their everyday life, and their truly unique view of the world.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Sullivan's elegant translations combined with Knab's commentaries make this the most satisfying, most authoritative introduction to Aztec literature." -- John Bierhorst, translator of Cantares Mexicanos --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Language Notes

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Spanish

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Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Touchstone; First edition. edition (January 13, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0671864130
• ISBN-13: 978-0671864132
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 0.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,940,109 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Deftly translated into English, July 26, 2003

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Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Scattering of Jades: Stories, Poems, and Prayers of the Aztecs (Paperback)

A Scattering Of Jades is an anthology of Aztec literature, expertly compiled and edited by anthropologist Timothy J. Knab, and deftly translated into English by Nahatl scholar Thelma D. Sullivan. Most of the stories, poems, and prayers are brief yet vividly evocative. The world view of this ancient civilization; the everyday life of its people; and a unique glimpse into Mesoamerican culture make A Scattering Of Jades an unforgettable and highly valued contribution to the growing library of available Aztec Literature and Pre-European Native American Studies collections.