Fugitive Freedom

Fugitive Freedom explores the intriguing story of two priest impersonators, Joseph Aguayo and Juan Atondo, who navigated the complexities of late colonial Mexico. Set against the backdrop of a society in turmoil due to wars, natural disasters, and the sweeping changes brought about by European expansion, the book delves into the lives of these vagabond figures who were often viewed with suspicion and intrigue. The historical context reveals how such individuals, seen as threats to public order and morality, inspired a series of administrative responses aimed at controlling their presence.

The narrative highlights the cultural significance of these characters, known as pícaros, who emerged prominently in Spanish literature and popular culture. These figures, often characterized by their cleverness and resourcefulness, lived on the fringes of society, driven by the harsh realities of poverty and displacement. Aguayo and Atondo's lives mirror the traits of literary pícaros, prompting questions about their self-perception and the narratives they crafted for themselves in a world that was both hostile and unforgiving.

William B. Taylor's work offers a rare glimpse into the social histories and inner lives of these marginalized individuals. By examining their experiences within an unstable colonial order, Fugitive Freedom not only sheds light on the personal struggles of Aguayo and Atondo but also reflects on the broader themes of identity, survival, and the quest for agency in a rapidly changing landscape. Through this exploration, the book invites readers to reconsider the complexities of life at the edges of society during a pivotal moment in history.