Original Authors: Anonymous (compiled by various authors)
Date Written: c. 16th century CE
Description
The Popol Vuh, also known as The Sacred Book of the Maya, is a foundational text of the K'iche' Maya people of Guatemala. This ancient manuscript, written in the 16th century, is a rich compilation of mythological narratives, historical accounts, and cultural traditions. The Popol Vuh provides a profound insight into the cosmology, creation myths, and heroic tales of the Maya civilization. The text is divided into several parts, beginning with the creation of the world and the gods, followed by the adventures of the Hero Twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, and concluding with the history of the K'iche' people. The Popol Vuh is not only a literary masterpiece but also a vital document for understanding the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Maya. The English translation by Delia Goetz and Sylvanus Griswold Morley, first published in 1950, remains one of the most respected versions of this classic work. Their translation captures the essence of the original text, making it accessible to a wider audience and preserving the rich storytelling tradition of the Maya.
Where to Find This Work
Popol Vuh: The Sacred Maya Book of Creation
Credit: Traditional K'iche' Maya text
Summary:
One of the most important surviving texts of the K'iche' Maya tradition, preserving creation narratives, mythological cycles, heroic adventures, and sacred teachings concerning the origins of the world and humanity.
Publication Date: 16th century manuscript tradition
Popol Vuh: The Definitive Edition of The Mayan Book of The Dawn of Life and The Glories of Gods and Kings
Translator: Dennis Tedlock
Summary: This edition of Dennis Tedlock's unabridged, widely praised translation includes new notes and commentary, newly translated passages, newly deciphered hieroglyphs, and over forty new illustrations.
Publication Date: January 31, 1996
Popol Vuh: The Sacred Book of the Ancient Quiche Maya (Volume 29) (The Civilization of the American Indian Series)
Credit: Translated by Delia Goetz and Sylvanus G. Morley, from the Spanish translation by Adrián Recinos
Summary: A classic English translation of the Popol Vuh, the K'iche' Maya creation narrative, part of the University of Oklahoma Press's "Civilization of the American Indian" series.
Publication Date: 1950; Reprint: December 15, 1991
Book Information:
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