[Aztlan] Latest Story on Apocalypto

[Justin Kerr]

Thanks, Elaine for posting the article. 

 

I did see the new coming attractions the other day and wondering where the
designers of the makeup and some other things got their ideas. (I think from
some of the fake sculpture available in fancy stores in Mexico City).

However, I am bothered by the use of the word Mayan such as Mayan jungle,
Mayan temple, Mayan vase. Etc. Even calling the people the Mayans. My
understanding is the word Mayan is reserved for the language and the
language only; such as a "Mayan word" or a "Mayan phrase". The correct usage
should be Maya temple, the Maya (when speaking of the people) or a Maya
vase, etc. 

 

I realize however, that many publications, including the New York Times use
the word Mayan indiscriminately and this may be a case where common, but
wrong usage has crept into the language.  I noticed in the article that Dr.
Sharer is quoted using the word Mayan to describe other things than the
language itself. I wonder if this is so, or did the reporter not quote
correctly?

 

I myself will continue to use the word Maya, rather than Mayan, but then you
can't teach an old dog new tricks. 

 

Justin Kerr