The notion of duality is widespread in descriptions of the culture. It seems everything pertaining to Mexicans or their way of thinking has both a light side and a dark side, every notion has opposing facets. As this concept may be difficult to relate to American culture, similarly the Mexican notion of death and fatalism is quite diffe

Mexico seems an interesting place with an interesting history and fascinating culture. It's many facets, as compared to the North American culture, makes it quite amazing how a country so close can have so many different aspects. The many different themes of the culture make it that much more engaging. The duality of many aspects of life in Mexico causes almost everything to have a light and dark side. Although this can be intriguing, it can also be confusing if not kept in perspective. The Mexican notion of fatalism is so different than the North American ideal and it shows how much of a culture can be derived from the indigenous people of that region. The famous Mexican mask defines the Mexican people with their difficult history and introspective personalities. These three themes are important in an understanding of a place and culture so different yet similar to our own. Although it may be difficult to understand these notions at first, it is important to grasp the themes before the rest of the culture can be fully appreciated.

Riding also illustrates duality in his essay. For example, the manner in which men treat women in Mexico forms a duality1. He describes how the mother in a Mexican family is treated with dignity, love, and respect1. Mothers are held on a high pedestal. However, the wife in a Mexican family is treated poorly and in an undignified manner. There are many such dualities in the way that Mexicans act. Paz, for instance, touches on the introspective nature of Mexican men and how they hold in their emotions and feelings2. On the other side of things, Mexicans release their emotions at fiestas and let go of themselves for a short while2. These are a few of many examples of how duality prevails through the Mexican way of life.

The concept of duality is quite intriguing as it is represented in Mexican culture. Many different aspects of life have a light and dark side. Perhaps the most notable duality is the origin of the country from both Spanish and Indian descent. In Mexico there is a mixture of the two cultures as they combine to create a nation3. A Mexican of Spanish descent is called a Creole while one of mixed indigenous and Spanish descent is called a mestizo3. Both descents influence the Mexican culture as certain rites and traditions are derived from both. For example, the Day of the Dead is revived from indigenous heritage3. The mixing of Spanish and Indian ancestry in Mexico has been integral in the forming of the culture.

The theme of the mask is yet another cultural aspect represented in the art of Tamayo. Many of his works are mysterious and illustrate a concealed face or human form3. He expresses how the Mexican way of life is often concealed and how the people tend to be introspective3. There are many examples of the mask in Mexican culture. One is expressed in the manner in which men act toward women1. As in many aspects of Mexican life, men fear deception

Some common words found in the essay are:
North American, Mexico City, North America, Mexicans Eyes, National Geographic, Riding Using, Day Dead, Mexico Mexican, Mexican Spanish, Spanish Indian, mexican culture, north american, american culture, derived indigenous, north american culture, day dead, light dark, mexico city, mexican people, mexicans believe, mexican life, mexican family treated, derived indigenous cultures, spanish descent called,
Approximate Word count = 1986
Approximate Pages = 8 (250 words per page double spaced)