Malinche: A Novel
Books / Hardcover
Books › Fiction › Historical › General
ISBN: 074329033X / Publisher: Atria Books, May 2006
Recounts the story of the love affair between the conquistador Hernâan Cortâes and Malinalli, his Indian interpreter during the conquest of the Aztec empire, describing her role as a mediator between two very different languages and cultures.
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When Malinalli, a member of the tribe conquered by the Aztec warriors, first meets Cortés, she -- like many -- believes that he is the reincarnated forefather god of her tribe. Naturally, she assumes that her task is to help Cortés destroy the Aztec empire and free her people. The two fall passionately in love, but Malinalli gradually comes to realize that Cortés's thirst for conquest is all too human. He is willing to destroy anyone, even his own men, even their own love.Throughout Mexican history, Malinalli has been reviled for her betrayal of the Indian people. However, recent historical research has shown that her role was much more complex; she was the mediator between two cultures, Hispanic and Native American, and two languages, Spanish and Náhuatl. Bursting with lyricism and vivid imagery, Malinche finally unveils the truth behind this legendary love affair.
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