The Books of Chilan Balam: The Prophetic and Historic Records of the Mayas of Yucatan

Name: The Books of Chilan Balam: The Prophetic and Historic Records of the Mayas of Yucatan
Author: Daniel G. Brinton

By Daniel G. Brinton

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Archaeology & Anthropology History - Ancient Religion/Spirituality

About This Book

The author surveys a corpus of Maya manuscripts known as Chilan Balam, tracing the derivation of their title, their transfer into an alphabetic script after contact, and their varied provenance across Yucatán towns. He classifies their contents into astrological and prophetic material, native chronology and historical annals, medical recipes, and later Christian or colonial additions, and highlights the blending of indigenous lore with European almanac influences. Attention is given to the role of copyists, the manuscripts' textual diversity, and their usefulness for understanding Maya ritual, cosmology, and local historical memory.

About the Author

Daniel G. Brinton

Daniel G. Brinton was an influential American anthropologist and linguist known for his extensive studies of Native American cultures and languages. His works often explored the intersection of anthropology, history, and literature, contributing significantly to the understanding of indigenous peoples in North America. Among his notable publications is "A Primer of Mayan Hieroglyphics," which reflects his interest in ancient languages and their cultural contexts. Brinton's scholarship also includes studies on folklore, mythology, and the literary history of the Floridian Peninsula, showcasing his diverse interests and expertise in the field of Americanist studies.