5-Week SASA Reading Group: Reading Maya Mythology in Codex-Style Ceramics

This reading group introduces participants to key mythological themes in Classic Maya (250-900 CE) material culture, particularly as seen on a subset of ceramic vessels known as “codex-style” vessels.  After a brief introduction to Classic Maya mythology, we will read about and discuss three common and lesser-known mythical themes found on codex-style vessels. For each week, participants will receive a digital image of the ceramic vessels to be discussed, a translation of key texts from that vessel, and one or two academic articles that provide important background information on the theme to be discussed. During the weekly meeting, we will discuss insights, questions, and connections that participants encountered while doing the reading. We will conclude the reading group with a broad discussion of what we know (and still don’t know) about Classic Maya mythology. No previous knowledge of Maya hieroglyphic writing or art is required for this reading group. Participants…