Encyclopedia of Mythology: Aztecs
From [A]mun to [Z]eus, learn about different cultures through the lens of anthropology as we explore the mythology and religious practices of the Aztecs!
Susan Lanigan
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(243)
What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
The Encyclopedia of Mythology is a series of one-time classes that explores the sacred stories of various past and present cultures, as well as how those stories fit into secular society. Take one course, take them all, and in any order you choose! You might be familiar with the mythology of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, but what about the Aztecs? Many people conflate this ancient culture with their contemporaries, the Maya and the Inca, but each group was unique -- and the Aztecs were particularly macabre! In this section of Encyclopedia of Mythology, we'll explore the anthropology of the Aztec religion, including their creation myth, the Lords of the Day and Night, as well as their practice of human sacrifice. The class will begin with a brief discussion about what learners might already know, followed by an interactive lecture with accompanying visual aids. At the end of the class, we'll review and discuss our findings and try to relate them to other cultures throughout history, to explore how connected all human beings really are!
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Many religions, and particularly their mythologies, do contain some adult themes, primarily around sexuality and violence. Concepts such as incest among polytheistic deities or the commission of violent acts may be mentioned. They are addressed in a mature and secular manner, but will not be defined -- therefore, students should be familiar with, and not upset by, some of these concepts in an academic setting.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
I am an archaeologist and anthropologist, and have worked extensively in this area, including excavations in southern Mexico and Guatemala.
Additionally, many of my peers are experts in this area with published articles in the American Journal of Archaeology. Such sources were used in the creation of this class.
Joined May, 2016
4.8
243reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I received a BA in Cultural Anthropology from Tulane University, and wrote my Honour's Thesis on funerary and mortuary practices throughout differing cultural groups, and how these practices relate to spirituality and religion. The myths and sacred stories of cultures help us understand a variety of aspects of their daily life, and the secular and anthropological study of all spiritual concepts is, in my view, essential to understanding what makes us a global community.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$18
per classMeets once
45 min
Completed by 14 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-14 learners per class
