Karen Bassie-Sweet Poradie kníh

The Ch’ol Maya of Chiapas, descendants of the Classic period Maya, are explored in this insightful collection edited by Karen Bassie-Sweet. The essays by leading scholars reveal a striking continuity between contemporary Ch’ol rituals and ancient practices. Readers are taken on a journey into ancient caves, uncovering new aspects of Ch’ol cosmology. The authors weave together historical material from modern Ch’ol culture with archaeological findings, offering surprising insights into the history and conquest of the early Maya through the lens of colonial and twentieth-century descendants of the Postclassic period Ch’ol and Lacandon Ch’ol. Notable discussions include Early Classic paintings in the ritual cave of Jolja, which document ancient ceremonies similar to those practiced today, such as invoking a cave-dwelling mountain spirit for health and prosperity. Other essays delve into the deities associated with caves, mountains, and natural phenomena, tracing the lineage of ancient beliefs into contemporary practices, particularly rituals centered on the mountain deity Don Juan. The volume concludes with an appendix featuring three Ch’ol folktales and their English translations. By charting both literal and figurative paths to ancient trade routes, sites, and rituals, this work offers a fresh and informed perspective on the enduring evolution of Maya culture.