Coatlicue - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Coatlicue, the "Serpent Skirt Woman," is a central figure in Aztec mythology – a powerful earth goddess, mother of gods, and a symbol of both creation and destruction. Often depicted in fearsome form with a skirt of serpents, clawed feet, and a necklace of human hearts and hands, she represents the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. But is this terrifying image the complete picture?
References to Coatlicue can be traced back to the pre-Columbian era, evidenced within the Florentine Codex from the 16th century, compiled by Fray Bernardino de Sahagun, who documented Aztec life and beliefs. The chronicles detail complex creation myths and religious practices, often highlighting the tensions inherent between the sacred and the mortal realms. These primary sources offer a glimpse into a world brimming with symbolism and ritual; a world where powerful female deities reigned supreme, long before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors.
Over time, Coatlicue's image has been subject to varying interpretations, evolving from a revered mother deity to a monstrous idol. Scholars debated if she truly represented the earth, death, or perhaps a complex blending of those concepts. As Aztec society declined, Coatlicue's significance waned, superseded by more patriarchal religious figures. Despite this, Coatlicue retains her allure. The imposing monolith excavated in Mexico City in 1790 became a focal point for understanding Aztec artistic and religious practices. Could this statue be viewed as a work of subversive female genius, expressing power in a deeply patriarchal culture?
Coatlicue's legacy endures, not only within the realms of academic study, but also as a touchstone for contemporary artists and writers exploring themes of identity, power, and the feminine divine. She embodies the raw, untamed energy of nature—a reminder of life's inherent duality. Though often misunderstood, Coatlicue is far more than just a monstrous idol. Her story invites us to step beyond well-trodden narratives, consider the complexities of ancient belief systems, and question how we perceive the divine feminine and the creative force of life itself.