Fork in the Road: La Malinche’s Role in the Conquest
of Mexico
Samantha Kountz
University of Kent, UK
Abstract
The topic of La Malinche is a delicate one
not only because of the extraordinary lack of historical data about her, but
also because of the extreme social reactions to whatever parts of her story we
have. Malinche is either loved or hated in such extremes that her story is
rarely touched upon by neutral forces. As fascinating as these studies of
Malinche’s influence are, there is not enough evidence for a true personal
profile of Malinche. There is however enough evidence from the writings of the
participating Spaniards and natives to assess how much influence Malinche had
in the conquest of Mexico. By comparing different texts, the argument can be
made that Malinche was within a position of importance amongst the Spaniards,
and grew only stronger after her decision to deliver intelligence that would
lead to the massacre at Cholula.
Keywords: Mexico, Cortes, Malinche,
History, Cholula, Colonialism
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