Metztli

Metztli (Metzli) In Aztec mythology, moon goddess. In order to make a light for the daytime Metztli sacrificed herself and Nanahuatl the Leper in a fire. When she disappeared into the flames, the sun was created. The male form of the moon was called Tecciztecatl. He was portrayed as an old man with a large seashell on his back.

SEE ALSO:

• Aztec Mythology
• Meso American Mythology

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow-Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante