Ancient Maya Myth, Economy, and Ideology: A Marxist Interpretation of the Hero Twins Saga

Abstract

A close reading of the Popol Vuh (ancient Maya text) provides clues regarding how folk beliefs, legends, and mythology legitimized political relationships by justifying the privilege, wealth, and the dominance of the elite. An interpretation, based on the Marxist social anthropology of Leslie White, uses a folkloristic analysis to explore economic and materialistic influences upon religion and ideology.