Question

Why do the authors suggest that the transformations that marked the end of Maya divine rulership do not qualify as apocalyptic collapse?

A) Maya society experienced a complete collapse, leading to its disappearance.
B) The transformations represent a gradual change rather than a sudden collapse.
C) The end of divine rulership marked the beginning of a new era of prosperity.
D) The authors argue that there is no evidence of any significant societal change.

Answer 1

The transformations that marked the end of Maya divine rulership do not qualify as an apocalyptic collapse because they indicate a gradual social change, with power shifting to a burgeoning noble class, rather than a sudden end to the civilization.

Step-by-step explanation:

Authors suggest that the transformations that marked the end of Maya divine rulership do not qualify as an apocalyptic collapse because they represent a gradual change rather than a sudden collapse. This perspective is supported by evidence showing that even as some aspects of Classic Maya civilization began to deteriorate, such as the slowing of luxury good production and breakdown of alliances, societal changes were also unfolding.

This shifting of power from divine rulers to a more decentralized nobility suggests that while there were certainly declines in certain areas, societal changes were complex and did not result in an immediate or total collapse of the civilization.