article

The departure of the Dueño

Journal of the Folklore Institute • 2 (1) • Published In 1965 • Pages: 31-42

By: Saler, Benson.

Abstract
This article examines the legend of Juan Noj, a manifestation of the "Earth Essence" and dueño (master, owner) of the volcano Santa María, who travels the countryside on horseback in the guise of a wealthy Ladino (mestizo, hispanicized) man or boy. A compact may be made with him, exchanging one's soul for a life of riches. People use the story to explain disparities in wealth.
Subjects
Acculturation and culture contact
Verbal arts
Accumulation of wealth
Spirits and gods
culture
Quiché Maya
Region
Middle America and the Caribbean
Sub Region
Maya Area
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2021
Field Date
1958-1959
Coverage Date
1958-1959
Coverage Place
El Palmar, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
Notes
Benson Saler
LCCN
68130162
LCSH
Quiché Indians