DAY OF THE DEAD WEBQUEST Welcome, students! In this webquest, you will embark on a journey to explore the vibrant tradition of the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebration. Originating from Mexico, this tradition has evolved over time, intertwining with Catholic customs and becoming a unique cultural phenomenon celebrated worldwide. Your task is to delve into how the Day of the Dead is celebrated today and its connections to Catholicism. Task 1: Understanding the Origins 1. Start by researching the historical roots of the Day of the Dead. What are its origins, and how has it evolved over time? Provide a brief overview of its significance in Mexican culture. 2. Investigate the pre-Columbian beliefs and traditions surrounding death and the afterlife in Mesoamerican cultures. How did these beliefs influence the development of the Day of the Dead? 3. Examine the role of Catholicism in the adaptation of indigenous rituals into the Day of the Dead celebration. How did Catholicism influence the customs and practices associated with the Day of the Dead? Task 2: Exploring Contemporary Celebrations 1. Research how the Day of the Dead is celebrated in modern Mexico. What are some common customs and traditions observed during the celebration? Explore the significance of altars, offerings, and visits to cemeteries. 2. Explore how the Day of the Dead is celebrated in other parts of the world. Are there any unique variations or adaptations of the tradition in different cultures? How do people outside of Mexico incorporate the Day of the Dead into their own cultural practices? 3. Investigate how the Day of the Dead has been influenced by contemporary popular culture, including art, music, film, and literature. How has the celebration been portrayed and interpreted in various forms of media? Task 3: Reflecting on Connections to Catholicism 1. Explore the Catholic elements present in the Day of the Dead celebration. How do Catholic symbols, rituals, and beliefs manifest during the observance of the holiday? 2. Investigate the role of Catholic saints and religious imagery in the Day of the Dead tradition. How are saints honored and incorporated into the celebration? 3. Reflect on the significance of blending indigenous beliefs with Catholicism in the context of the Day of the Dead. How has this fusion shaped the cultural identity and expression of the celebration?
