Saints, sovereignty and spectacle in colonial Mexico

This study analyzes government development, promotion, and patronage of the three largest festivals in Mexico City from the 1530s to Independence, although particular emphasis is placed on the 17th century. The three festivals--the inaugural entrance of the viceroy, the oath of allegiance to the king and the celebration of Corpus Christi--were utilized as tools of hegemonic control. Diverse groups were captivated and entertained by the State in order to combat dissent and violence and to reaffirm institutional legitimacy in a time of demographic change, economic stagnation and rebellion. Spectacle was propagandistic and directed toward a multitude of anonymous yet potentially disruptive individuals i.e. Native Americans and castas.;Government sponsorship of these three festivals reflected elite perception of political realities and local concerns in the capital, and, the change in the ruling philosophies of the two reigning dynasties, the Habsburgs and the Bourbons. The Habsburgs viewed the festivals as a duty, an essential part of governing. Festival patronage kept the people happy and enhanced the image of the State by demonstrating its generosity even at the expense of sound fiscal policy. Government sponsorship of the spectacle created a symbolic social contract whereby hosting a festival the State maintained its right to rule. This perception was not shared by the Bourbon authorities who charged that certain festivals were merely excuses for subversive and licentious behavior. In addition, eighteenth-century officials sponsored festivals in accordance with a renewed emphasis on the monarch compatible with Enlightened despotism.;This study discusses the evolution of each festival from its beginnings in the 16th century to its festive apogee in the late 17th century and to alterations made by 18th-century authorities. Thus this study examines the specifics of official Habsburg and Bourbon policy regarding the three festivals presented and the myriad of symbols utilized to convey the message of acceptance, loyalty, and legitimacy to the populace. The significance of iconography, ritual, pomp and circumstance, costuming, ephemeral architecture, religious devotion and even fireworks constitute the bulk of this study. All were marshalled to paint an image of a sumptuous powerful State.