"A serious, well-crafted collection of essays first presented at a seminar during 1992-93 centers on identity. Analysis of the texts by José de Anchieta, Acosta, and Polo de Ondegardo lead to new understandings about cannibals in Brazil. Jesuit writings inform about the Chaqueños and their resistance to colonialism. Texts by F. Núñez de Pineda Bascuñán and Fray Juan Falcón offer contrasting views on Araucanian society. Also analyzes papers of the Malaspina Expedition for new insights. Other papers present research on the indigenismo movement and nationalism in 19th-20th centuries"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.