1. discuss 3 important achievements ancient Maya. 2. Explain who or what "ano viejo" is and its significance. 3. Describe a "traje de poblana". 4.what was the importance of stone, stick, and shell symbols in the Maya Empire? 5. How would you describe Enrique Salaverrias sculpture of a women with a building raising up from her head?
1. Three important achievements of the ancient Maya are:
a) The development of a complex writing system: The Maya civilization is famous for its advanced script, which was the most sophisticated and highly developed writing system in pre-Columbian Americas. They used a combination of syllabic and logographic elements to represent their language, which allowed them to record their history, mythology, and scientific knowledge.
b) Remarkable architectural and engineering skills: The Maya built spectacular cities filled with immense temples, pyramids, and palaces. These structures were primarily used for religious and ceremonial purposes and showcase their expertise in design, construction, and urban planning. Some of the most famous Maya cities include Tikal, Palenque, and Chichen Itza.
c) Advances in astronomy and mathematics: The ancient Maya were skilled astronomers and mathematicians who accurately tracked celestial movements to create precise calendars. One of their most famous calendars, the Long Count, allowed them to record dates spanning thousands of years. They also understood the concept of zero and used a base-20 numerical system for their calculations.
2. "Año Viejo" or "Old Year" is a tradition observed in several Latin American countries, including Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela, to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. Año Viejo is represented by a life-size dummy or effigy made of old clothes and usually stuffed with paper, straw, or fireworks. The effigy represents the negative aspects and events from the past year that people want to leave behind. On New Year's Eve, the Año Viejo effigy is burned as a symbol of cleansing and renewal, serving as a way to release the old year's troubles and start the new year with a clean slate.
3. A "traje de poblana" is a traditional Mexican dress originating from the state of Puebla. The dress is characterized by a full and colorful skirt adorned with intricately embroidered patterns, typically featuring flowers, birds, and other natural motifs. The blouse or top is also heavily embroidered and is usually worn off-the-shoulder. These dresses represent the blending of indigenous and Spanish influences in Mexican culture, with the intricate embroidery symbolizing the artistic skills and craftsmanship of Mexican women.
4. Stone, stick, and shell symbols played significant roles in various aspects of Maya life, including their writing system, art, and religious practices. In their writing system, the Maya used symbols or glyphs to represent various elements of their language, and these glyphs were often carved in stone or written on perishable materials like paper made from tree bark. Stick and shell symbols were also used in divination rituals, with the Maya priests interpreting their arrangements to make predictions or provide guidance. Additionally, stone, stick, and shell symbols were incorporated into the art of the Maya, often representing important religious concepts or historical events.
5. Enrique Salaverria's sculpture of a woman with a building rising from her head can be described as a unique and thought-provoking piece of art, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the structures we create. The sculpture may symbolize the idea that our environment, specifically the urban spaces we inhabit, is an extension of ourselves and our collective cultural identity. The woman in the sculpture can also be interpreted as a representation of the society that nurtures and supports the growth of architectural and urban development. The fusion of the woman and the building emphasizes the interconnectedness of human life, creativity, and our built environment.