The Similarities between the Beautiful Feast of the Valley and the Mexican Day of the Dead

Abstract

Honoring the dead in a great celebration is not a new tradition in Mexico. Thousands of years before the existence of the Mexican day of the dead, ancient Egyptians had dedicated a yearly festival to commemorate their dead in what is known as the beautiful feast of the valley. This study aims to show the similar beliefs of both ancient Egyptians and ancient Mexicans about death and their commemoration of their dead. This article explores the origins of the modern day of the dead festival which is held every year in Mexico and how it has survived and preserved a part of the cultural heritage of ancient Mexico. It explains similarities between the rituals and traditions of the beautiful feast of the valley and the Mexican day of the dead. This work highlights the purpose of each festival and its social importance as both celebrations are intended to enhance the national identity.