Contradiction and Inconsistency in the Conquest of the Aztecs
by Both Diaz and Leon-Portilla portray an Aztec understanding of the Spanish conquest that is full of contradiction; similarly, the Spanish view of the Aztecs is shown to be equally inconsistent. These paradoxical conflicts inherent in each group’s understanding of the other are critically important to this study of conflict between civilizations: they led to complacency and division within the Aztec ranks, and, in contrast, to unity and aggression in the case of the Spanish.
The fact that in many cases the Spanish felt warmly welcomed, in direct contradiction to their aforementioned fear for their lives, was also important to their success against the Aztecs. Diaz writes that Montezuma “was not only at our service but would share all that he possessed with us.” This warm reception allowed Cortes to take advantage of these friendly enemies, attacking the Aztecs when they were in the midst of a traditional celebration, a tactic that was used on at least two occasions.
Yet another contradiction in the views of the Spanish led to increased aggression. They were deeply impressed with some aspects of Aztec life, yet abhorred by others. Great pains are taken to record many other impressive elements of Aztec society, such as animal taming, weaving, jewelery making, a bustling market, the courts, and excellent city-building. The weapons of the Aztecs are described to be excellently crafted and of high quality, such that even when “driven at a buckler or a shield they are not deflected”.
These praises praise contrast directly with the frequent mention of sodomy and human sacrifice, which were extremely offensive to the Spanish, such as when “The whole place [sacrifice area] stank abominably”. The fact that the Aztecs were recognized to have possessed such an impressive civilization made it attractive for the Spanish to take over, and the opposing view that the society was primitive and barbaric merely provided further motivation to take it over for religious and moral reasons.
It is clear, therefore, that contradiction and inconsistency within the views of the Spanish towards the Aztecs, and of the Aztecs towards the Spanish, are crucial factors in determining the fate of the Aztecs. This ever-present ambivalence motivated the Spanish on one hand and divided the Aztecs on the other, permanently shaping the conquest of Mexico.
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