Gloss, “marina” (interpreter’s name)

This gloss identifies the interpreter as Marina. This name, given to her upon baptism, would evolve into Malintzin (a Nahuatlization) and then into Malinche (a re-Hispanization). In these scenes she is a figure with great importance as she interprets between two cultures. We do not see clear evidence that the painter of this manuscript held her in disdain. It would be surprising given the alliance that formed between the Spaniards and the Tlaxcalteca. [SW]