Discuss the view of either religion or commerce that Columbus reveals in the letter and consider how those views inform the actions he recounts. Are there other possible readings?

Discussion 1: Exploration/Colonization, Columbus, De Vaca

For this week’s forum, respond to ONE of the following questions:

1. Who are Columbus’s audiences, and how can you tell? Explain how his letter reveals a specific self-characterization that is tailored for these audiences.

2. How does Columbus view the Native Americans? Discuss his interpretation of their culture, using his language. Is there any evidence in his account that another interpretation is possible?

3. Characterize Columbus’s view of the landscape. Given his audience, what does he gain or lose by proposing such a view to readers?

4. Discuss the view of either religion or commerce that Columbus reveals in the letter and consider how those views inform the actions he recounts. Are there other possible readings?