MesoAmerican Mythology: Maya & Aztec Myths

Essential Question:

How do belief systems in mythology reflect a particular culture or society, and how are they reflected and represented in a society’s literature and art? What are the common motifs present in various mythologies?

Portrait of a Graduate:

Critical Thinking: Analyzing and comparing the myths from these two cultures will enhance critical thinking and analytical skills.

Global Citizenship: Understanding these mythologies promotes appreciation for cultural diversity and historical perspectives.

Communication: Presenting findings on Maya and Aztec myths will develop students' ability to articulate complex ideas effectively.

Inquiry Question:

How does the Mayan, Aztec, and Incan pantheon reflect the beliefs and values of the ancient cultures or societies, and how do stories about them reflect those beliefs and values?

2. Inquiry Question:

How did the concept of death and the underworld affect the way ancient Mayans and Aztecs lived their lives? How was it reflected in their myths?

3. Inquiry Question:

How do heroes reflect the specific culture which celebrated them?

Student Outcomes:

Students will analyze stories focusing on the Aztec pantheons to create a skit teaching the class about the deities–and what it revealed about their culture.

2. Student Outcomes:

Students will create a video game pitch designed to teach others about the levels of Mictlan, the Aztec Underworld.

3. Student Outcomes:

Students will be able to identify the components of the hero’s journey and apply it to the myth of “The Hero Twins.”

Skills Demonstrated:

Analytical Thinking: By comparing the pantheons and myths of the Maya, Aztec, and Incan cultures, students will analyze how these reflect and shape the civilizations' beliefs and values.
Research Skills: Investigating historical and cultural contexts to understand the significance of myths, deities, and heroes requires effective research techniques.
Critical Thinking: Evaluating how the concept of death and the underworld influenced ancient societies calls for deep reflection and critical analysis.
Creative Writing: Crafting a narrative based on mythological themes allows students to apply their understanding creatively, demonstrating their ability to construct engaging stories that reflect complex ideas.
Communication Skills: Presenting research findings or storytelling requires clear and effective communication, both written and oral, ensuring ideas are conveyed persuasively.
Cultural Understanding: Through exploring these myths, students gain insights into the worldview of ancient civilizations, fostering a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.
Interpretive Skills: Understanding and interpreting the symbolism and themes within myths will enhance students' ability to read texts deeply and thoughtfully.

Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.2: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.

Additional Skills:

Resources:

Magnus Chase: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan/

The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec/

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint /

Athena’s Child by Hannah Lyn/

A Spartan’s Sorrow by Hannah Lynn /

Daughter of Sparta by Claire Andrews

[Our Hidden Google Drive Resource link]

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