Montezuma's Influence On The Spaniards

410 Words2 Pages

When Felipillo fell in love with one of Atahualpa’s wives, he did everything he could have her. As a result, his position as the interpreter played to his advantage, his fake allegations stated that Atahualpa was planning to attack the Spaniards. Many believed his argument because of his convincing role and therefore, obviously made the Spaniards very apprehensive. From the Incas point of view, they argued after his death, they would “await him in Quito” they all felt the loss of Atahualpa and many of his wives killed themselves, this does show to an extent the loyalty some individuals would have gone to remain true to their emperor and proving the influence the leader’s life had on them. Another leader that had influence among his people was Montezuma. Montezuma is presented as a decent man when he welcomes the Spanish gracefully. Diaz even states in his book that “on hearing this speech, we were all amazed at the greatness …show more content…

Diaz attempts to convince the readers that Montezuma is living comfortably in captivity with no resentment towards the Spanish. Nevertheless, multiple incidences during his captivity suggest otherwise. The guards are often disrespectful to Montezuma; he took away his men and was made to watch them burn alive, which is the worst possible death according to the natives. As a political leader, Montezuma had authority and leadership; not only his people supported him, but the Spanish was impressed by his generosity and wealth. An example of the guidance from his people was the translator, Dona Marina. Once she saw the captains getting irritated and furious she quickly advises Montezuma to go with the Spanish, she says that “I know they will treat you very honorably as the great prince you are” her sensible logic helped save Montezuma from a possible impulsive killing from the Spanish and it also proves that she believes he is noble and