Broken Spears: A Maasai Journey : Book Review

"Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico" by Elizabeth L. Gilbert is a captivating historical book that sheds light on the lesser-known perspective of the Aztec civilization during the conquest of Mexico by the Spanish conquistadors. Gilbert's writing style is engaging and informative, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story.

The book provides a comprehensive account of the events leading up to the fall of the Aztec empire, presenting a gripping narrative from the perspective of the native people. Gilbert delves into the rich history and cultural traditions of the Aztecs, giving readers a deeper understanding of their way of life before the arrival of the Spanish.

"Broken Spears" is well-researched and provides a balanced portrayal of both the Aztec and Spanish perspectives. Gilbert's ability to humanize the Aztec people and their struggles is one of the strengths of the book. She highlights their bravery, resilience, and complex societal structure, dispelling the stereotypes often associated with indigenous civilizations.

The book also examines the actions of the Spanish conquistadors, exploring their motivations and the impact of their conquest on Mexico. Gilbert incorporates a variety of primary sources and firsthand accounts from the Aztecs themselves, further enhancing the authenticity and credibility of the narrative. This adds a sense of immediacy and intimacy to the storytelling, allowing readers to connect with the historical figures on a personal level.

Overall, "Broken Spears" is a highly informative and thought-provoking book that provides a fresh perspective on the conquest of Mexico. Elizabeth L. Gilbert's meticulous research and engaging writing make for an engrossing read, capturing the complexities and tragedies of this pivotal moment in history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of the Aztec civilization and the impact of European colonization.

What are readers saying?

The book "Broken Spears" authored by Elizabeth L. Gilbert has received a range of reviews from readers, eliciting a mixed response overall. The average rating of 3.88 out of 5 stars suggests a generally positive reception.

Many readers commended Gilbert for her meticulous research and engaging writing style. They applauded her ability to breathe life into history, effectively narrating the tale of the Aztec Empire, its Spanish conquest, and the subsequent aftermath. The book was praised for its educational value and insightful perspective on historical events. Readers were captivated by the well-crafted narrative and admired Gilbert's skill in making the complex history of the Aztecs accessible and interesting.

Several reviews highlighted the book's ability to illuminate a lesser-known aspect of history. Readers appreciated Gilbert's attention to detail and noted the extensive research that underpinned her work. They lauded the rich descriptions that transported them to that era, enabling them to experience the events as if they were unfolding in real time.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that Gilbert's writing style lacked depth and failed to fully engage with the content, describing it as dry. Some reviewers criticized the book's structure, noting that it shifted abruptly between different time periods and events without clear transitions. Additionally, a few readers felt that the book overly emphasized the brutality of the conquest, without adequately exploring the intricacies of Aztec culture.

In conclusion, the reviews for "Broken Spears" by Elizabeth L. Gilbert offer a mixed perspective. Although many readers praised Gilbert's research and writing style, others found the book lacking in depth and structure. Despite this, the book provides an educational and insightful exploration of the Aztec Empire's history and its Spanish conquest. Ultimately, its appeal may vary among readers.

MesoamericanHistory IndigenousCulture ConquistadorEra