All Flashcards
Explain the use of the preterite tense in historical narratives.
The preterite tense is used to describe completed actions in the past, often used to narrate historical events sequentially.
Explain the use of the imperfect tense in descriptive passages.
The imperfect tense is used to describe ongoing actions, states, or habitual actions in the past, providing background information and setting the scene.
How does Cortés use direct and indirect speech?
Cortés uses direct speech to quote conversations and indirect speech to report what was said, shaping the reader's perception of events and characters.
Explain the use of descriptive adjectives in 'Segunda carta de relación'.
Descriptive adjectives are used to vividly portray the Aztec cities, people, and customs, influencing the reader's impression of the New World.
How does Cortés employ the use of 'usted' versus 'tú'?
Cortés uses 'usted' to address King Carlos V formally, showing respect and deference, while 'tú' is generally avoided in this context.
Explain the use of subjunctive mood when expressing doubt or uncertainty.
The subjunctive mood is used to express doubt, uncertainty, or subjectivity, reflecting Cortés' perspective and potential biases in his account.
How are compound sentences used to describe complex events?
Compound sentences are used to connect related ideas and provide a more detailed and nuanced account of the events and observations.
Explain the use of the passive voice.
The passive voice is used to shift the focus from the actor to the action, often emphasizing the impact of events rather than who performed them.
What are some common uses of impersonal 'se'?
Impersonal 'se' is used to make general statements or describe actions without specifying a subject, creating a sense of objectivity.
How does Cortés use conditional sentences?
Cortés uses conditional sentences to express hypothetical situations or potential outcomes, often related to the success or failure of the conquest.
Explain the use of preterite tense when Cortés describes past events.
The preterite tense is used to describe completed actions in the past, providing a clear timeline of events during the conquest. Example: 'Llegué a la ciudad' (I arrived at the city).
Explain the use of imperfect tense when Cortés describes ongoing situations or characteristics.
The imperfect tense is used to describe ongoing actions, habitual actions, or descriptions in the past, setting the scene and providing context. Example: 'La ciudad era grande' (The city was big).
How does Cortés use direct object pronouns to refer to people and things?
Direct object pronouns (me, te, lo, la, nos, os, los, las) are used to replace direct object nouns, making the writing more concise. Example: 'Moctezuma me recibió' (Moctezuma received me).
Explain the use of reflexive verbs when Cortés describes actions he or others perform on themselves.
Reflexive verbs indicate that the subject performs the action on themselves, often used to describe daily routines or personal actions. Example: 'Yo me preparé' (I prepared myself).
Describe the use of ser vs. estar in Cortés' descriptions.
'Ser' is used to describe permanent characteristics or identities, while 'estar' is used for temporary states or locations. Example: 'La ciudad es grande' (The city is big - permanent) vs. 'Yo estoy aquí' (I am here - temporary).
Explain the use of subjunctive mood when Cortés expresses doubt or uncertainty.
The subjunctive mood is used to express doubt, uncertainty, wishes, or emotions. Example: 'Dudo que sea un dios' (I doubt that he is a god).
How does Cortés use impersonal 'se' to describe general actions or situations?
The impersonal 'se' is used to describe actions where the subject is not specified or is irrelevant. Example: 'Se dice que...'(It is said that...).
Explain the use of comparative and superlative adjectives to describe different aspects of Aztec society.
Comparative adjectives (más...que, menos...que) are used to compare two things, while superlative adjectives (el/la más...) are used to describe the highest degree. Example: 'La ciudad es más grande que...' (The city is bigger than...) or 'Es la ciudad más grande' (It is the biggest city).
How are possessive adjectives used by Cortés to describe ownership or relationships?
Possessive adjectives (mi, tu, su, nuestro/a, vuestro/a, su) are used to show possession or relationships. Example: 'Mi carta' (My letter).
Explain the use of conditional tense when Cortés speculates about potential outcomes.
The conditional tense is used to express what would happen under certain conditions or to make polite requests. Example: 'Yo diría...' (I would say...).
What was the significance of Tenochtitlán?
It was the capital of the Aztec Empire, showcasing advanced urban planning, architecture, and social organization.
What role did religion play in Aztec society?
Religion was central, influencing art, architecture, and rituals, including human sacrifice.
What was the purpose of human sacrifice in Aztec culture?
It was believed to appease the gods and maintain cosmic balance, though Cortés often portrays it negatively to justify conquest.
How did the Aztecs organize their markets?
Aztec markets were highly organized, with designated areas for different goods and services, demonstrating a sophisticated economic system.
What was Moctezuma's initial perception of Cortés?
Moctezuma initially welcomed Cortés, possibly believing him to be a returning god, which influenced their early interactions.
What were some key differences between Spanish and Aztec cultures?
Differences included religion (Christianity vs. polytheism), governance (monarchy vs. empire), and economic systems (European mercantilism vs. Aztec tribute).
How did the Spanish view the Aztec practice of human sacrifice?
The Spanish viewed it as barbaric and uncivilized, using it as a justification for conquest and conversion to Christianity.
What was the role of gold and silver in the Spanish conquest?
The Spanish were driven by the desire for wealth, particularly gold and silver, which fueled their exploration and conquest of the Americas.
How did Cortés portray the Aztec civilization to King Carlos V?
Cortés portrayed the Aztec civilization as both impressive and needing conversion to Christianity, justifying Spanish colonization.
What was the significance of the 'Segunda carta de relación'?
It provides a firsthand account of the Spanish conquest from Cortés' perspective, shaping historical understanding and justifying Spanish actions.