IndexSummary of Broken LancesIntroductionAnalysis of Broken LancesImpact of Broken Lances on Historical UnderstandingConclusion Broken Lances is a historical account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico, written by Miguel Leon-Portilla . The book provides a unique perspective on the events before and after the fall of the Aztec empire, as it is based on indigenous sources rather than Spanish accounts. In this essay we will provide a summary of The Broken Spears, analyze its meaning, and discuss the impact of its depiction of conquest on our understanding of the story. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Summary of The Broken Spears The Broken Spears begins with an introduction by Leon-Portilla, in which he explains the methodology and sources used in the book. It highlights the importance of using indigenous accounts to understand conquest from the perspective of the conquered rather than the conquerors. The book is divided into five parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the conquest. In the first part, "The Great City of Tenochtitlan", Leon-Portilla provides a detailed description of the Aztec capital and its society. It describes the structure of the city, the role of religion and human sacrifice, and the political structure of the empire. This section sets the stage for the events that follow, giving readers an idea of ​​the rich and complex civilization the Spanish encountered. The second part, "The Invasion", details the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernan Cortes, and their first interactions with the Aztecs. The natives' accounts reveal the confusion and fear incited by the Spanish, as well as the attempts of the Aztec ruler, Moctezuma, to deal diplomatically with the newcomers. The Spanish eventually betray Moctezuma's trust and take him hostage, prompting a violent revolt by the Aztecs. The third part, "The Night of Sorrows", recounts the Spanish retreat from Tenochtitlan and the subsequent massacre of their forces by the Aztecs. Leon-Portilla presents the indigenous perspective on these events, highlighting the courage and determination of the Aztec warriors in repelling the invaders. This section challenges the traditional narrative of the conquest as a quick and easy victory for the Spanish. In part four, "The Fatal Error," Leon-Portilla discusses Spanish retribution against the Aztecs and their allies, as well as the devastating smallpox epidemic that ravaged the indigenous population. Accounts of these events provide a harrowing portrait of the suffering and destruction caused by the conquest. The final section, “The Agony of a Civilization,” reflects on the consequences of the conquest and the lasting impact on the indigenous peoples of Mexico. Leon-Portilla highlights the resilience of the surviving Aztecs and their efforts to preserve their culture and traditions in the face of Spanish oppression and assimilation. Analysis of The Broken Spears The Broken Spears offers a powerful and evocative portrait of the Spanish conquest of Mexico from the perspective of the vanquished. By centering indigenous voices and experiences, Leon-Portilla challenges the dominant Eurocentric narrative of conquest and exposes the brutality and devastation wrought by the Spanish invaders. The book humanizes the Aztecs and other indigenous peoples, presenting them as complex, multifaceted societies rather than primitive or barbaric civilizations. One of the most significant aspects of The Broken Spears is its emphasis on the agency and resistance of indigenous peoples. The book highlights the courage and resilience of the Aztecs in the face of overwhelming odds, challenging the idea of ​​their passive acceptance.