Hernan Cortez True History Analysis

Few times in history do we get to have a detailed and in-depth look into a major historical event like we do with Bernal Diaz del Castillo “Historia Verdadera de la Conquista de la Nueva España” or “The True History of the Conquest of the New Spain.” Written by a foot soldier alongside Hernan Cortes, “True History,” allows us to get a front row view to what can be considered one of the most fundamental encounters between European travelers and New World natives. Notably, it is not written is standard academic prose but rather an everyday vernacular, creating a more intimate relationship between Diaz and the reader while also removing the middleman and making the account more personal as a whole. “True History” itself chronicles the journey …show more content…
Throughout his life he remained loyal to both god and country, ideals that radiate out of his writings and can be attributed to much of his viewpoints in “The True History.” Living in mid-renaissance Spain, pro-European ideals were permeating throughout all European culture, and no doubt Diaz was indoctrinated in these beliefs, as is evident by the ideals in his writings. With this is mind it is easy to see how Diaz’s life led to him recounting the experiences in the way he did. Born into nobility, joining Cortez for a chance at satisfying his urge for God, gold and glory, Diaz accounting of the conquest of Mexico comes with biases that would be considered typical for that time period, no matter how outdated or grotesque they seem at times. However, while pro-Spanish ideals are scattered throughout the book, Diaz does seem to resent Cortez at times. This shows an uncharacteristically human quality, different from the almost propaganda-like historical accounts from academia from the same …show more content…
The conquest of “New Spain” was one that undoubtedly shaped the relationship between the two world for the rest of our history, one that to this day is still a subject of mourning and tragedy to many people across the world. And while this accounting is harsh and unapologetic, the best way to honor the memory of all those who died during the conquest is not to romanticize them or vilify them, but to remember them as they were, and not repeat the mistakes that were made the first time. This is exactly what “True History” provides, a way to remember those before us, and will remain an integral part of human history for many years to