In the second half of the chronicle, we see changes occurring within the Europeans and between them and the indigenous people. As we discussed in class, the adventures of Cabeza de Vaca and his attitude is a process. It entitles a series of actions that lead to a change in how he responds to these actions. We first saw how he reacted to the storm (hurricane) that hindered their journey in the first half and showed their weaknesses. Similarly, other situations and struggles, including hunger and illnesses come between them and their goal to find gold and other resources and ultimately for taking over their land.
Through this journey, the reader can see the change in the author. As the encounters between the two groups of people become more and more frequent, they notice the major differences. They observe their own advanced intellect opposed to their knowledge of the wilderness. For example, he states that they know nothing about the sun, the moon, and the stars. This is a reference to science and technology which also symbolizes the power he thinks he has over these uneducated people. This observation portrays him as the egotistic and ignorant character from the first half the chronicle. However, as the story unravels, suddenly he sees many similarities to the “Indians”, who he initially thought were barbaric and uncivilized.
Survival becomes crucial as they travel from village to village and encounter problems. More and more, we see the two cultures colliding and beginning to build relationships. For me, the second half is more emotional and profound than the first half, in which we saw more of the physical effects of their adventure. In addition, there are several references to traditions of the indigenous people, which lead me to think that the author is in fact appreciating their culture. For example, he talks about the importance of “la calabeza.” There are more encounters between the two cultures, in which the reader can observe the roles switching. The European explorers become more threatening and salvage, and the indigenous are portrayed more innocently and kind. There are several incidents where Cabeza de Vaca describes “the Indians” in fear of the Europeans. At this point, it seems as though, they are terrorizing the villages. They steal and they kill, even though they are welcomed into their homes. I am confused however, because at times, it seems as though they are becoming closer and closer to the people in the village. They feast together and it appears that the people are helping them and guiding them. I had contradicting views of Cabeza de Vaca as I read the last chapters…
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