On page 86 Townsend says, "Then he ushered Cortes into one of the halls, where they each sat upon special seats that betokened political authority. In the presence of their leading men, they began to talk. Malintizin stood between them." In both of these images Malintzin is shown standing behind Cortes, which might represent her "secondary" role in the conquest. However, she was essential to the Cortes, because was able to translate and ultimately aid Cortes in conquering much of Mesoamerica. If Malintzin were standing in between Cortes and Moctezuma I believe that Townsend would agree it is an accurate portrayal of Malintzin.
Another reason why Townsend would agree with these images as accurate is because on page 86 she says, "According to the memories of that day the nobles passed down to their sons in their own tongue, Malintzin understood Moctezuma's courtly language perfectly but responded with brutally direct speech, devoid of honorifics or polite reversals." According to Townsend, Malintzin knew about the Moctezuma and his court protocol and deliberately chose not to follow. Therefore, the images of Malintzin bowing to Moctezuma could not have happened. Townsend might favor other images of Malintzin lifting her hand and talking in between Cortes and Moctezuma, because they support her own ideas and research.
I agree with you on the inaccurate portrayals of Malintzin in these two pictures. Though she may have been submissive in some aspects - as was the culture in western Europe at the time - and not submissive as her role as interpreter called for.
ReplyDeleteDo you know anything about the artist who painted this pictures? It would be interesting to find out how the artist thought about Malintzin and even feminism.
One thing to point out that's similar with the portraits of Malinche that show her in a dominant role is her clothing - the long, tunic-dress with skirt underneath. Dressed well but also modestly.
Also, one thing I do like about these two pictures is the use of colors. Bright, vibrant, lots of details. Quite unlike most of the other pictures I've seen.
I agree with what you say because you have supported your ideas with context from the text. I think that she does look submissive which shows the power that Cortes had over Malintzin.
ReplyDeleteAt the same time i think that this pictures portrays Malintzin as someone who does not have the ability to decide on herself and she needs the orientation of cortes. Knowing that Malintzin was a leader and played an important role in the conquest she should be the main focus in this picture then townsend would then agree with the picture.
Why isn't she wearing shoes? if she was a traitor she would be dressed more like a spaniards, just like other pictures. I mean she was even called Dona Marina. In one way Townsend could agree with this picture in the sense that Dona MARINA was not a traitor, her dress attire show that. She is still reserves the identity of the Native Culture.