Abstract

The San José de Laguna Mission was constructed in 1699 in modern New Mexico. Following on the heels of the second Pueblo revolt, it stands as a testament to the Pueblo adoption of Christian symbols in the portrayal of their own oral traditions. A central theme in the Laguna oral tradition is the complementary nature of masculine and feminine forces that make up the universe. The Christian figures of the altar screen, such as Saint Joseph, Saint John Nepomuck, Saint Barbara, and the Trinity, can be interpreted through the lens of the Pueblo oral tradition regarding a 19th century Laguna reception. Specifically, they could reflect various aspects of masculinity and femininity from a Laguna perspective. Inviting this interpretation, a hide painting hung above the altar screen displays Laguna deific imagery. The Sun Father, Horned Water Serpent, Moon Mother, and Little Twins of the Laguna oral tradition are placed above the Christian altar screen. By connecting Christian imagery to the Pueblo oral tradition, the masculine and feminine forces of the Laguna worldview are emphasized, and their creative powers fuel Pueblo religiosity and Christian ordinances alike.

Degree

College and Department

Humanities; Comparative Arts and Letters

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/