This course explores the food culture of Mesoamerican peoples, including the Olmecs, Aztecs, and Maya. Through lectures, readings, and hands-on activities, we will explore the symbolic ingredients of corn, beans, chili peppers, chocolate, and mescal. Using the lens of food and agriculture, we will also discuss gender roles, household economies, religious practices, political structures, war and conquest, and the material culture of daily life in the ancient Mesoamerican world.