Identity and Legitimization of the Itzá. Creation of communal identity and legitimization of rule in the iconography of the late- to postclassic Maya city of Chichén Itzá, Yucatán.

Chichén Itzá was a late- to postclassic Maya city in the north of Yucatán, Mexico. Around AD 800 a relatively abrupt change occurred in the iconographic and architectural style, which was traditionally ascribed to an invasion of the Toltecs or the Toltec style. Recent research contradicts this theory, and this research master thesis addresses the possibility that the Itzá themselves are responsible for the change by incorporating central Mexican religious and cultural elements into their own culture. The context of this issue will be established by examining recent research, the background, and history of the Itzá. A study in the theory of group identity, and collective and cultural memory will address the processes that play a role in the creation of group identity and the legitimization of rule. An analysis of the iconography and architecture of several structures in the ceremonial centre of Chichén Itzá focuses on the general themes of the iconography to establish whether they...Show moreChichén Itzá was a late- to postclassic Maya city in the north of Yucatán, Mexico. Around AD 800 a relatively abrupt change occurred in the iconographic and architectural style, which was traditionally ascribed to an invasion of the Toltecs or the Toltec style. Recent research contradicts this theory, and this research master thesis addresses the possibility that the Itzá themselves are responsible for the change by incorporating central Mexican religious and cultural elements into their own culture. The context of this issue will be established by examining recent research, the background, and history of the Itzá. A study in the theory of group identity, and collective and cultural memory will address the processes that play a role in the creation of group identity and the legitimization of rule. An analysis of the iconography and architecture of several structures in the ceremonial centre of Chichén Itzá focuses on the general themes of the iconography to establish whether they reflect the legitimization of rule and the creation of group identity. The results indicate that the new style at Chichén Itzá is indeed aimed at supporting these processes. By adapting the style, the collective and cultural memories were altered, leading to a firm new group identity. This was necessary after the Itzá migrated north from their homeland in the Petén area, driven away by political and military conflict, where they founded Chichén Itzá. The results emphasize the self consciousness and independence of the Itzá in planning and executing identity politics. Additionally, the results suggest the Itzá were an empowered people, contrary to the past traditional view of Maya as a peaceful and passive people.Show less

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Identity and Legitimization of the Itzá. Creation of communal identity and legitimization of rule in the iconography of the late- to postclassic Maya city of Chichén Itzá, Yucatán.