Authors

Theresa Avila

Document Type

Working Paper

Publication Date

7-1-2007

Abstract

How did an archetype of rebellion become a personification of national identity? Emiliano Zapata (1879-1919), one of the leaders of the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920), has often signified competing elements for varied constituencies locked in ideological conflict. Each narrative seeks to claim Zapata's iconic status as a symbol for what they respectively represent nationally. Hundreds of portraits of Zapata have been fundamental to the construction of each of these competing narratives. My essay addresses the reasons the image of Zapata has been engaged and how its meaning has been altered through time.

Publisher

Latin American and Iberian Institute

Language (ISO)

English

Keywords

Emiliano Zapata, Symbol, Image, Figure, Rebellion, Archetype

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