When the Spanish arrived in the early 16th century, their perception of the Aztecs was largely influenced by their own cultural and religious beliefs. They viewed the Aztecs as a highly sophisticated civilization, yet they also judged them through a lens of superiority. Many Spanish explorers, such as Hernán Cortés, were struck by the advancements in agriculture, architecture, and governance that the Aztec Empire had achieved.
However, this admiration was often overshadowed by a deep sense of disdain. The Spanish were horrified by the Aztec practice of human sacrifice, which was integral to their religious beliefs. This led them to portray the Aztecs as barbaric and in need of salvation through conversion to Christianity.
Moreover, the wealth of the Aztec civilization fueled the Spanish’s greed and ambition. They saw the potential for riches in the form of gold and silver, which further colored their view of the Aztecs. The Spanish desire to conquer and convert the Aztecs created a complex relationship marked by both admiration and aggression.
In conclusion, the Spanish perspective of the Aztecs was multifaceted: they recognized the Empire’s achievements while simultaneously dehumanizing them based on their own cultural biases and the perceived need to impose their beliefs. This juxtaposition played a significant role in the events that led to the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.