The pleasant historie of the conquest of the VVeast India, now called new Spayne: atchieued by the vvorthy Prince Hernando Cortes, marques of the Valley of Huaxacac, most delectable to reade

Key themes

Conquest and Colonialism

This is the overarching theme, exploring the mechanisms, justifications, and consequences of the Spanish subjugation of the Aztec Empire. The book details the military campaigns, political maneuvering, and the establishment of a new colonial order, presenting it as a heroic and necessary expansion of the Spanish realm and Christian dominion.

Ambition and Destiny

The narrative consistently portrays Hernando Cortés as a man driven by extraordinary ambition, not just for wealth and power, but also for glory and a sense of fulfilling a grand, perhaps divinely ordained, destiny. His actions are framed as the inevitable unfolding of a preordained plan, with his success attributed to both his personal genius and divine favor.

Cultural Clash and Misunderstanding

The book vividly, though often one-sidedly, depicts the profound cultural collision between the Spanish and various indigenous peoples, particularly the Aztecs. It highlights the vast differences in worldview, religion, warfare, and social customs, often presenting indigenous practices as 'barbaric' or 'superstitious' in contrast to European 'civilization' and 'Christianity.'

Worth discussing

How does López de Gómara's personal relationship with Cortés influence his portrayal of the conquistador and the events of the conquest?