All Flashcards
What is the meaning of 'Conquistador'?
A Spanish conqueror, especially of Mexico and Peru in the 16th century.
What is the meaning of 'Enumeración'?
A literary device involving a detailed list of things or events.
What is the meaning of 'Polisíndeton'?
The repetition of conjunctions (like 'y') in close succession.
What is the meaning of 'Asíndeton'?
The omission of conjunctions between words, phrases, or clauses.
What is the meaning of 'Narrador testigo'?
A witness narrator who narrates from their own experience as a participant.
What is the meaning of 'Narratorio'?
A text that combines a letter format with a historical account.
What is the meaning of 'Vasalos'?
A person or state in a subordinate position to another.
What is the meaning of 'Tenochtitlán'?
The capital city of the Aztec empire, located on an island in Lake Texcoco.
What is the meaning of 'Macehuales'?
Commoners in the Aztec society.
What is the meaning of 'Tlatoani'?
The Aztec ruler or king.
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 main goal of the Spanish during the Age of Discovery?
To seek wealth, glory, and spread Christianity.
What is the significance of Cortés' letters to King Carlos V?
They served as both historical documents and persuasive writing, aiming to justify the conquest.
What does Cortés' description of Tenochtitlán reveal about Aztec society?
It highlights the sophistication, organization, and wealth of the Aztec civilization.
What role did religion play in the Spanish conquest?
The Spanish used religion as a justification for their conquest, viewing it as their duty to convert indigenous populations to Christianity.
What is the significance of human sacrifice in Aztec culture?
Human sacrifice was a significant religious ritual in Aztec culture, which Cortés often highlighted, sometimes to justify Spanish intervention.
What does the meeting between Cortés and Moctezuma symbolize?
It symbolizes the clash of two distinct civilizations and the beginning of the Spanish conquest.
How did the Aztecs perceive Cortés and his men initially?
Initially, the Aztecs perceived Cortés and his men as foreigners, and some believed them to be gods.
What was the purpose of the Aztec markets described by Cortés?
The markets were centers of commerce and social interaction, showcasing the variety and abundance of goods in Aztec society.
What is the significance of the natural resources described by Cortés?
The description of abundant natural resources emphasizes the potential wealth of the newly discovered lands, justifying Spanish interest.
How does Cortés portray the Aztec's luxurious lifestyle?
Cortés details the elaborate meals, service, and attire of the Aztec elite to highlight their sophistication and wealth.