The book is an essay on the ancient culture of the peoples of Mesoamerica by the time of the Spanish conquest based on the literary works of the Indians and mestizos. The author considers the epic, historical chronicles, lyrics and drama, makes extensive use of excerpts from them, and thus the cultural life of the Indians appears in all its diversity. The book also touches upon the issue of the clash and interaction of two cultures: one based on mythological and ritual consciousness, the other European. The publication is intended for a wide range of readers.