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Can the Aztec spoken language be considered and art form?

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Final answer:

The Aztec spoken language, Nahuatl, was indeed an art form used in poetry and music. Aztec sculptures and architecture also reflected their artistic achievements. Despite Spanish conquests destroying much of their art, ongoing archaeological work is uncovering the depth of Aztec artistry.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Aztec spoken language, known as Nahuatl, played a significant role within their society, most notably in artistic expressions such as songs, music, and poetry. As with many cultures, the Aztecs considered the art of language as a revered form through which they conveyed complex ideas, beliefs, and values. Their intricate poetry, with layered meanings that often celebrated natural elements, deities, and warfare, demonstrates the artistry with which they wielded their spoken language. While there was no full writing system, logograms and artistic depictions such as those found in the Codex Mendoza were crucial in chronically Aztec history—relayed through oral traditions and arcane symbols.

Sculpture was another essential medium of artistic expression for the Aztecs, serving as a cornerstone of their culture and a means to communicate religious principles. Masters of various art forms, the Aztecs created exquisite stone sculptures, architecture, and metalwork—crafting objects of spirituality and status that often depicted their numerous deities. It's worth noting that the Spanish conquest led to the destruction and loss of much of the Aztec's art and language, yet through continued research and archaeological discoveries, such as new monumental Mexica sculptures, the profound artistry of the Aztec civilization is increasingly understood and appreciated today.

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