By Joanne M. Spero

Originally presented at the Sixth Palenque Round Table in 1986. Published in 1991 in Sixth Palenque Round Table, 1986, edited by Virginia M. Fields. This paper is presented in digital format for its historical interest. Since its original presentation, further advances have been made in the field of Mesoamerican studies. The "Cauac Monster" is now generally referred to as the witz monster, as it is thought to represent a personified mountain (witz in Mayan). This paper remains noteworthy for its ethnographical and other observations and the first mention of the glyphs for "Green [or First] Rain Chaak". Online publication: November 2003.

Beyond Rainstorms: The Kawak as an Ancestor, Warrior, and Patron of Witchcraft
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