Abstract

ESPINOZA BACILIO, Julieta. “There are Two Heavens and Two Hells”: José Mariano de Ayala’s Lies and Social Criticism, 1757-1785. Estud. hist. novohisp [online]. 2024, n.70, pp.183-215.  Epub Apr 05, 2024. ISSN 2448-6922.  https://doi.org/10.22201/iih.24486922e.2024.70.77785.

Based on an inquisitorial file, this article follows the steps of José Mariano de Ayala, a prisoner judged by the Inquisition in New Spain in the second half of the 18th century. His blasphemies and lies were the main religious and social transgressions for which he stood under the inquisitorial eye for 28 years. The numerous letters by Ayala and the reports of his behavior in jails allow for an análisis of the reasons why he insisted on returning to the inquisitorial jails, and to ponder on whether his crimes against the faith were an expression of social alienation and if his constant blasphemies represented a critique to the social order in New Spain.

Keywords : Inquisition; blasphemy; imposture; 18th century; New Spain.