Life in Mexico (1839-1841) of Madame Calderón de la Barca: an analysis of the documentary sources used by the author and their influences in the study of nineteenth-century Mexico

Abstract

Travel stories about Mexico in the 19th century have been recognized as one of the most prolific literary genres throughout history. From ancient times to the present there has been a constant interest in leaving in writing the testimony of the places visited, their education, folklore and heritage. Life in Mexico stands out among these works for its ability to transcend initial criticism and for being written by a foreign woman with an Anglican mentality, which represented a challenge in 19th century Mexico. This article analyzes the documentary sources that influenced the author in the creation of her work, as well as those that allowed her to delve into the Mexican society of the time, and that are cited in Life in Mexico. His influences come from reading various publications that addressed the history of Mexico, including the work of the German historian Humboldt, among others. It is important to highlight that the main themes addressed in her writings are supported by printed sources such as periodicals of the time and women’s literary magazines. In summary, Life in Mexico was a set of letters that generated controversies and ambiguities in the perception that the author offered about the country, even in the use of sources that support her work and those that inspired the protagonist to explore Mexico. of the 19th century.