We have different types of assignments in our German classes that keep us busy and eager to learn new words. This week’s assignment was to present a kind of art that is typical from our home country. We first had a discussion of what is considered art, and it is any type of performance, object or construction that reflects someone’s taste or feelings, from Architecture to music. As I come from Mexico, I wanted to talk about something historical that truly represents Mexico, we have specific pyramids, handicrafts, music, food, etc., but then I realised that every country has this. Of course art and costumes change with time and location, but at the end, I couldn’t find something that really represented the way people experience Mexico. But then it hit me, Mexican Wrestling is completely unique and it shows all the folklore and rascality that Mexican culture has. Maybe it is not the most refined spectacle you may see but I am sure it will keep your attention and you will have a good time. I brought a typical colorful mask to class and showed a video of the acrobatic fights. Although it is only a spectacle and it is known that the winner is arranged, people attend this fights because of the show. Here you will see wrestlers flyup into the air out of the ring, one thing I find extremely funny is the fact that you can hand a wrestler a chair or any random object and he will use it to knock down the other wrestler.

Mexican wrestling came from Greco-Roman wrestling and was invented on 1863, when Enrique Ugartechea became the first Mexican wrestler. Mexican wrestling has become very popular with and without the masks in other countries, mostly USA and Japan.

Everyone in my class was completely astonished by my description and the video. I hope you get the chance to experience this spectacle, since I am sure you will have a good time. It may not become you favorite spectacle but you will remember it forever.

Claudia Rendon