| Note: | J10 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Object Name: | Dictionary of Spanish and Nahuatl | |
| Creation Date: | 1555 | |
| Culture: | Mexican Colonial | |
| Location: | Mexico | |
| Repository: | Benson Latin American Collection, University of Texas, Austin | |
| Image source: | Courtesy Benson Latin American Collection, General Libraries, University of Texas at Austin | |
| Alonso de Molina (1513-1579) was a priest and linguist. Besides his priestly duties, Molina devoted himself to the study, understanding and writing of Nahuatl. He composed and preached many sermons in the Nahuatl tongue. Molina is best known for his published writings, which make him an important pioneer in the science of linguistics. This dictionary was produced by the Franciscan Fray Alonso De Molina. lt was the fírst dictionary printed in the New World, and the first systematic approach to an indigenous language. Molina arrived in Mexico immediately following Cortes' invasion. The dictionary was useful for missionaries, but also served the ends of colonial policy. This dictionary Spanish-Nahuatl called "Vocabulary in Castilian and Mexican language" which expanded from 1555 to 1571 is considered Molina's main contribution. Later in 1571, he would include the Nahuati-Spanish dictionary. | ||
