The Representation of Quetzalcoatl in Contemporary Media

The Representation of Quetzalcoatl in Contemporary Media

Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent deity of Mesoamerican mythology has been depicted in various forms of media since the pre-Columbian era. Modern media, from films to video games, have continued to feature representations of Quetzalcoatl, but how accurately are these depictions portrayed?

In many instances, Quetzalcoatl is presented as a god of wisdom and the arts, responsible for bringing knowledge and civilization to humankind. However, not all depictions of Quetzalcoatl are positive, rather some portray him as a sinister figure, a serpent that lures and deceives humans.

One example of a positive representation of Quetzalcoatl is in the children’s show, ‘El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera.’ Here, Quetzalcoatl is a wise mentor, advising Manny on how to succeed in his superhero adventures. Similarly, in the popular video game ‘Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood,’ Quetzalcoatl is depicted as a guardian, protecting ancient temples from those who seek to exploit them. He is well-respected and revered for his knowledge.

On the other hand, Quetzalcoatl is depicted in a negative light in the film ‘The Curse of the Aztec Mummy,’ where he appears as an evil deity that demands human sacrifices. This portrayal perpetuates the notion of the savage and barbaric Aztec culture, reducing it to simplistic tropes.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to showcase the diverse representation of Quetzalcoatl in media. In the TV series ‘Magnum P.I.,’ an episode titled ‘Day of the Viper’ featured a businessman with a giant tattoo of Quetzalcoatl, emphasizing the god’s spiritual significance to modern-day Mexicans. In this episode, Quetzalcoatl’s image is treated with respect and dignity, recognizing the importance of Mesoamerican culture in modern society.

Moreover, the acclaimed video game ‘Gone Home’ features an educational piece on Quetzalcoatl, informing the player of his cultural significance and dispelling the myth of Quetzalcoatl as a malevolent deity.

In conclusion, while media portrayals of Quetzalcoatl can vary from positive to negative depending on the context, contemporary media can highlight the cultural significance of the deity. It is important to note that while Quetzalcoatl may be a popular figure in modern media, it’s crucial to ensure that his depictions remain respectful of Mesoamerican tradition and accurately represent his significance as a cultural icon.

In summary, Quetzalcoatl’s representation in contemporary media varies from positive to negative, and it’s essential to recognize and appreciate his cultural significance while also acknowledging the respect Mesoamerican tradition deserves.