It is not a civil holiday, but one solemnity in every waywhich goes beyond religious belief. But because November 2, the day after the Feast of All Saints, is the day we dedicate to memory of our dead?
In Mexico, where it is a real party, it is the Day of the Dead. Of pre-Columbian origin, it lasts 5 days, from October 28 to November 2 and is the focus of films. Oh Ghost (remember the beginning, with James Bond on the rooftops in Mexico City?) and the cartoon Cocoa.
With us, the origin goes back to Byzantines. It is a reference to the ritual that was celebrated Saturday before Sexagesima. That is, the Sunday mass that fell 60 days before Easter.
It is the original name of the festival Athe anniversary of All Souls and it appears for the first time in the Ordo Romanus in the 14th century. But the Benedictine abbot was the first to celebrate it Odile Cluny who in 998 ordered the bells to be rung “to death” after vestments on November 1. The next day’s mass, he then ordered, would be there for all the dead. The prayers for the deceased, indeed…
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Cultural Expert on the Significance of Day of the Dead
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to our special segment where we dive into the cultural significance of traditional observances. Today, we have with us Dr. Elena Torres, an expert in cultural anthropology and the author of several works on Mexican traditions. Dr. Torres, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Elena Torres: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. In your field, you’ve explored various traditional observances around the world. November 2nd is recognized in many cultures as a day to remember the deceased. Why is this date particularly significant in Mexico?
Dr. Torres: November 2nd is closely associated with the Day of the Dead or Día de los Muertos, which follows the Feast of All Saints. While it’s often thought of as a celebration of the departed, it’s much more than that. It’s a vibrant cultural expression that honors the memories of those who have passed away, emphasizing the connection between the living and the dead.
Editor: It seems like a fascinating blend of solemnity and festivity. You mentioned it’s not a civil holiday—what does that mean in this context?
Dr. Torres: Exactly! Unlike typical holidays, which might be recognized by governments, Día de los Muertos is deeply rooted in cultural and religious practices. It’s a solemnity that speaks to the human experience of death and remembrance. This observance transcends religious boundaries and engages people of various beliefs, focusing instead on the universal themes of memory and respect.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense. You mentioned the celebration occurring the day after the Feast of All Saints—how do these two events interconnect?
Dr. Torres: The Feast of All Saints highlights the lives of saints and martyrs in Christian tradition, setting the stage for Día de los Muertos to follow. It essentially creates a continuum where individuals can transition from honoring saints to personal remembrance of family members and loved ones. In Mexico, this is an opportunity for families to reflect on their heritage, share stories, and celebrate the lives of those who have passed.
Editor: You noted that in Mexico, this observance feels like a real party. Can you describe some of the vibrant traditions associated with the Day of the Dead?
Dr. Torres: Certainly! The celebrations are incredibly colorful and festive. Families create elaborate ofrendas or altars in their homes and cemeteries, decorated with photos, favorite foods, and personal items of the deceased. The streets come alive with parades, music, and dances that encourage remembering and honoring. People often paint their faces to look like calaveras or skeletons—illustrating the belief that death is a part of life and should be confronted joyfully.
Editor: That is such a beautiful perspective! How do you see the significance of Día de los Muertos evolving in contemporary culture, both in Mexico and globally?
Dr. Torres: The significance continues to grow, especially as communities around the world embrace these traditions. In places like the United States, there’s been a rise in awareness and appreciation of Día de los Muertos. It’s important because it fosters dialogue about death, grief, and memory in a way that feels celebratory and accepting rather than somber. This evolution allows other cultures to recognize and reflect on their own experiences with death, enriching a global conversation.
Editor: Thank you for sharing these insights, Dr. Torres. It’s clear that Día de los Muertos offers a unique perspective on life and death that resonates deeply. Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like our readers to take away from our conversation today?
Dr. Torres: I hope readers can appreciate how Día de los Muertos transcends mere tradition. It invites us to acknowledge our loved ones, celebrate life, and confront our mortality in a compassionate and joyous manner. Whether through art, storytelling, or simply sharing memories, we can all participate in this beautiful tradition, regardless of our backgrounds.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for sharing your expertise with us today. We’re grateful for your insights into such a meaningful tradition.
Dr. Torres: Thank you for having me. It’s an important conversation to have.