The Plumed Serpent

The Plumed Serpent by D. H. Lawrence is a novel set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, exploring themes of identity, power, and cultural transformation. The story follows Kate, an Irish widow, as she becomes entangled in a religious revival led by Don Ramón and Cipriano, who seek to resurrect the ancient Aztec god Quetzalcoatl. Through their political ideology, they aim to restore indigenous culture and nationalism, challenging the influence of colonialism. The novel delves into the mysticism and rituals of paganism, contrasting them with Western beliefs. Lawrence examines the power struggle between the old and new worlds, reflecting on the roles of gender and the individual’s place within society. As Kate witnesses the transformation of Mexico, she grapples with her own identity and beliefs, ultimately questioning the impact of this revival on the country’s future.