The Complete Illustrated History of the Aztec & Maya: The Definitive Chronicle of the Ancient Peoples of Central America & Mexico--Including the Aztec, Maya, Olmec, Mixtec, Toltec & Zapotec - Couverture souple

Phillips Charles & Jones David

Couverture souple

ISBN 10 : 1846810736 ISBN 13 : 9781846810732

Editeur : Hermes House, 2015

Synopsis

This definitive reference offers enthralling insights into the art and architecture, myths and legends, and everyday life of the people of Mexico and Central America. Stories of sun-gods and blood sacrifice, of pyramids and temples, and of the fabulous treasuries filled with gold have fascinated many generations. This book unravels the true facts behind the stories and looks at how myth and legends can tell us much about the cult of war in these pre-industrial nations. The magnificent architectural and cultural achievements of a succession of Mesamerican peoples û the Olmecs, Maya, Zapotecs, Toltecs, Mixtec and Aztecs û cover almost 3000 years. These achievements range from the temple-pyramids and colossal stone carvings of the Olmecs to the awe-inspiring cities, vast trading networks and complex religious societies of the Aztecs and Maya. Archaeological finds and surviving documents provide intriguing insights into astronomy, the development of calendars, mathematics, writing and the arts. They also reveal a grim commitment to war and a savage religious devotion to gods who demanded the blood of human sacrifice. The World Heritage sites of Mesoamerica, including historic Mexico City and Tenochtitlßn, Teotihuacßn, ChichÚn Itzß and Palenque, Tikal and Monte Albßn are examined in detail. Pottery and textiles, carvings, mosaics, and gold and metalwork show the technological innovations of these pre-industrial civilizations. Superbly illustrated throughout, with more than 1000 colour photographs, artworks, maps and plans, the book reveals every aspect of the history of these lost civilizations. This unrivalled volume is not only a perfect introduction to the subject but also a stunning visual record of a fascinating period that has helped to shape our world. A comprehensive and authoritative history of the rise and fall of the many different empires of Central America and Mexico - the Olmec, Maya, Chichimec, Huastec, Zapotec, Toltec, Mixtec, Totonac, Aztec and other ancient peoples of Mesoamerica Uncovers the political, military and social world of the time - the politics, the wars and campaigns, the legends and myths, and the art, architecture and social history Explores the region's colourful mythology, including tales of creation, earth and sky; legends of the gods, goddesses and heroes; and stories of fertility, harvest and the afterlife Fully illustrated throughout with over 1000 enthralling photographs, paintings, artworks, maps and architectural cross-sections Ground plans and detailed photographs explore over 20 magnificent and vitally important World Heritage sites, including Teotihuacßn, Tenochtitlßn, ChichÚn Itzß, Palenque, Tikal and Monte Albßn This is a book that gets to the heart of the Maya and Aztec civilizations. It stands head and shoulders above others in the way the ancient world has been simplified and brought to life with a clear, concise text backed by thoughtfully chosen illustrations. It is a thoroughly readable account and reference work." Tony Morrison, author of Pathways to the Gods and photographer

A propos du livre

À propos de l'auteur

Charles Phillips is an established historical writer with a keen interest in the mythology and history of the great Maya and Aztec civilizations. A graduate of Oxford University, he holds an MA from the University of Westminster, London. Charles was a key writer on Time Life's Myth and Mankind series, and is the author of The Complete Illustrated Guide to the Kings & Queens of Britain (also published by Lorenz Books). He has contributed to several illustrated histories, including The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Tartan (Lorenz Books), Cassell's Dictionary of Modern Britain, and the Chronicle of Britain. Dr David M Jones, consultant, studied Anthropology and History at the University of California, Berkeley. He obtained a PhD in the Archaeology of the Americas at the Institute of Archaeology, University of London. Dr Jones is co-author of the Blue Guide Mexico and wrote many articles on Mesoamerican and South American art for The Grove Dictionary of Art. He is the author of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Incas and the co-author of The Mythology of the Americas (both also published by Lorenz Books).

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Hermes House
• Date d'édition: 2015
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 1846810736
• ISBN 13: 9781846810732
• Reliure: Broché
• Nombre de pages: 512
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: non disponible