How To Write a Thesis on The Broken Spears

"The Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico" by Miguel León-Portilla is a historical account that offers a unique perspective on the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. If you're writing a thesis on "The Broken Spears," you'll want to focus on specific themes, arguments, or aspects of the book that interest you. Here's a general guide on how to structure and approach your thesis:

Introduction:

Introduction to the Book:

Provide a brief overview of "The Broken Spears" and its significance in the context of historical literature.
Mention the author, Miguel León-Portilla, and his purpose in compiling Aztec accounts.

Thesis Statement:

Clearly state the main argument or theme you will explore in your thesis.
Example: "This thesis examines the portrayal of the Spanish conquest in 'The Broken Spears' and analyzes its impact on our understanding of the Aztec perspective on the events."

Body:

1. Historical Context:

Discuss the historical context of the Spanish conquest and the significance of the Aztec Empire.
Provide a brief overview of the primary sources used by León-Portilla and their importance.

2. Aztec Perspective:

Analyze how "The Broken Spears" presents the Aztec perspective on the conquest.
Explore themes such as cultural misunderstandings, the impact of disease, and the role of Moctezuma.

3. Spanish Conquest:

Examine how the book portrays the actions and motivations of the Spanish conquistadors.
Discuss any biases or limitations in the Aztec accounts and how they might affect our understanding.

Explore the cultural and social consequences of the conquest on the Aztec people.
Analyze the accounts of rituals, traditions, and daily life to highlight the cultural disruption.

5. Narrative Style:

Discuss the narrative style of "The Broken Spears" and its impact on the reader's perception.
Analyze the author's choices in presenting the material and their influence on historical interpretation.

Conclusion:

Summary of Findings:

Summarize the key findings and insights gained from your analysis.

Contributions to Historical Understanding:

Discuss how "The Broken Spears" contributes to a broader understanding of the Spanish conquest and indigenous perspectives.

Limitations and Further Research:

Address any limitations in the book or your analysis.
Suggest areas for further research or exploration related to the Aztec perspective on the conquest.

Tips:

Cite Examples:
Support your arguments with specific examples from "The Broken Spears."
Critical Analysis:
Offer a critical analysis of the author's choices, the reliability of Aztec accounts, and the broader historical implications.
Engage with Scholarship:
Incorporate relevant scholarly literature to support and contextualize your arguments.
Stay Focused:
Ensure that each section of your thesis directly contributes to your main argument.
Revise and Edit:
Revise your thesis for clarity, coherence, and proper grammar.

Remember to tailor the structure and content of your thesis to fit the specific requirements of your academic institution and the expectations of your advisor.

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Check our previous article: How To Write a Thesis on Huckleberry Finn