Nakedness and embarrassment among the pre-Hispanic Nahua

Abstract

This article studies four perspectives of nakedness. First of all, nakedness as a manifestation of shamelessness and as a sexual transgression. This enables us to move forward in the understanding of the conception of body among the ancient Nahua. Secondly, it is examined as humiliation, punishment and mockery of the person. The lack of clothing is not just a sign of degradation, it also implies a depersonalization. Thirdly, the subject of the intimidating naked body is discussed. For the most part, we focus our attention on the exposure of the female sexual organs. Men are afraid of beautiful and seductive women because the latter can kill the ingenuous who desire them and wish to possess them. Lastly, nakedness is expounded as part of ritual event. In this case, the lack of clothing is a necessary step for transitioning into another status. Nakedness is conceived of as a new birth, an origin, something new.