Who Wrote Madrid Codex?

By Michael Ferguson

The Madrid Codex is a pre-Columbian Maya manuscript that contains a wealth of information about Mayan civilization, including astronomical data, religious rituals, and historical events. However, the authorship of this fascinating document remains a mystery to this day.

Origins of the Madrid Codex

The Madrid Codex is one of only four known surviving Maya codices, which were folded books made from bark paper. It was likely created in the 14th or 15th century in the Yucatan Peninsula region of Mexico. The codex was later acquired by Spanish conquistadors during the colonization of the Americas and eventually ended up in the collection of the National Library of Spain in Madrid.

Theories about its Authorship

There are several theories about who wrote the Madrid Codex. One possibility is that it was created by a single scribe or group of scribes who recorded information passed down through oral tradition. Another theory suggests that it was written by a team of scholars who compiled information from various sources.

The Dresden Codex Connection

One clue to the authorship of the Madrid Codex comes from its similarities to another Maya codex called the Dresden Codex. The two manuscripts share similar iconography and contain many of the same astronomical calculations. Some scholars believe that they were created by members of the same community and may have even been part of a larger set of codices.

Maya Royal Court

Another theory suggests that members of the Maya royal court were responsible for creating both codices. The court had access to education and resources, which would have been necessary to produce such complex documents.

Maya Priesthood

Finally, some researchers speculate that it was written by members of the Maya priesthood, who had extensive knowledge in astronomy and religion. They may have used these codices as tools for conducting rituals and ceremonies.

  • Conclusion

Despite many years of research, the authorship of the Madrid Codex remains uncertain. It is likely that it was created by a group of individuals who drew upon a wide range of knowledge and traditions. Regardless of who wrote it, the Madrid Codex provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the Maya civilization, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and history enthusiasts alike.