Currency

Mexico & Norway

Story Tellers

Master D.M. Lee | 7/24/2023

Nezahualcóyotl - Mexico

Nezahualcóyotl (1402-1472) was a renowned philosopher, poet, and ruler in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. He was a prominent figure in the Nahua (Aztec) civilization and left a significant impact on the cultural and intellectual development of the region. Here are some key points about Nezahualcóyotl and his contributions:

Early Life and Lineage: Nezahualcóyotl was born in Texcoco, which was part of the Aztec Triple Alliance in present-day Mexico. He belonged to the ruling dynasty of Texcoco and was the son of a tlatoani (ruler) of the city.

Aztec glyphs for the member-states of the Aztec Triple Alliance: Texcoco (left), Tenochtitlan (middle), and Tlacopan (right). Public Domain

Patron of the Arts: Nezahualcóyotl was a great patron of the arts and literature. He promoted and fostered the development of poetry, music, and architecture in his court. His support led to the flourishing of artistic expression, and he himself composed numerous poems and songs that showcased his deep philosophical and spiritual reflections.

Philosopher and Poet: Nezahualcóyotl's poetry addressed profound themes such as nature, spirituality, morality, and the fleeting nature of life. His verses often conveyed a sense of longing, love for nature, and a quest for divine wisdom. His poetic works reflected his philosophical ideas and conveyed ethical teachings.

Codex Ixtlilxochitl - Fernando de Alva Ixtlilxochitl - LOC

Environmental and Ethical Values: Nezahualcóyotl's poetry also emphasized the importance of environmental conservation and respect for nature. He expressed the belief that humans should live in harmony with the natural world and acknowledged the interconnection between humans and the environment.

Political Leadership: In addition to his cultural contributions, Nezahualcóyotl was a respected and wise ruler. He implemented laws and policies that aimed to create a just and prosperous society. He promoted education, justice, and social welfare, and under his rule, Texcoco became known as a center of learning and intellectual pursuit.

Tenochtitlan and Lake Texcoco in 1519 - flickr

Legacy and Influence: Nezahualcóyotl's writings and teachings had a lasting impact on subsequent generations. His poetry and philosophy continue to be studied and celebrated for their depth, beauty, and profound insights into the human condition and the natural world. Nezahualcóyotl is revered as one of the great intellectuals and cultural figures of Mesoamerica.

Son of Nezahualcóyotl:Nezahualpilli, Codex Ixtlilxochitl - LOC

Nezahualcóyotl's contributions as a poet, philosopher, and ruler have made him an enduring symbol of wisdom, cultural excellence, and ethical leadership. His works continue to be appreciated and studied as valuable insights into the rich cultural heritage of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen - Norway

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen (1812-1885) was a Norwegian author and collector of folklore, best known for his collaboration with Jørgen Moe in creating a collection of Norwegian folktales. Here are some key points about Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and his contributions:

Folklore Collection: Asbjørnsen, along with Jørgen Moe, is known for their collaboration on the collection of Norwegian folktales known as "Norske Folkeeventyr" (Norwegian Folktales). The collection, first published in 1841, brought together traditional folktales and fairy tales from various regions of Norway. Their aim was to preserve and share the oral traditions and cultural heritage of the Norwegian people.

Collaboration with Jørgen Moe: Asbjørnsen and Moe worked together to travel across Norway, gathering and recording folktales directly from storytellers. They collected stories such as "East of the Sun and West of the Moon," "The Three Billy Goats Gruff," and "The Princess on the Glass Hill." Their collaboration significantly contributed to the preservation of Norwegian folklore and its recognition on a global scale.

Norwegian Folktales, a collection of Norwegian folktales and legends

Conservation of Norwegian Cultural Heritage: Asbjørnsen's work played a vital role in preserving and promoting Norwegian cultural heritage. The tales captured in their collection reflect the beliefs, customs, and values of the Norwegian people, providing insights into the nation's history and traditional way of life.

Naturalist and Writer: In addition to his work on folktales, Asbjørnsen was also interested in natural history and wrote extensively on the subject. He published works on Norwegian flora, fauna, and wildlife, showcasing his keen observations and love for nature.

Bunad, Ensemble, 19th century, MMA 2009.300.13a–g

Recognition and Legacy: Asbjørnsen's contributions to Norwegian folklore have had a lasting impact. His work, along with Moe's, continues to be celebrated as a significant achievement in Norwegian literature. The tales collected by Asbjørnsen and Moe have become beloved classics and have influenced subsequent generations of writers, both in Norway and internationally.

Portrait of Peter Christen Asbjørnsen, by Hans Krum

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen's dedication to preserving Norwegian folklore and his contributions to the literary landscape have solidified his place as a key figure in Norwegian cultural history. His efforts to collect and share traditional tales have enriched the understanding and appreciation of Norwegian folklore both within Norway and around the world.

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