"Taking it as a whole, Mexico is a grand city, and, as Cortes truly said, its situation is marvellous"

Edward Burnett Tylor's quote, "Taking it as a whole, Mexico is a grand city, and, as Cortes truly said, its scenario is wonderful", provides a layered interpretation that touches on historic, geographical, and cultural dimensions.

First of all, considering the historic context, Tylor references Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire. Cortés was among the very first Europeans to explore what is now modern-day Mexico City, then known as Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital. By discussing Cortés, Tylor conjures up a period of encounter between vastly different civilizations, underscoring a time when European explorers were equally marveled and confused by the grandiosity and elegance of indigenous cities like Mexico City. The historical gravitas in Tylor's words serves to acknowledge a time when Mexico had been the center of amazing architectural and cultural accomplishments.

Geographically, Tylor's remark on Mexico City's "situation" being "wonderful" talks to its special setting. Initially constructed on an island in the Valley of Mexico, surrounded by mountains and lakes, Tenochtitlán was renowned for its well-planned streets, complex systems of canals, and impressive temples. Its place was not only stunning but tactical, facilitating trade and interaction. In Tylor's time, even after centuries of change under colonial and post-colonial impacts, Mexico City retained aspects of its awe-inspiring natural and city landscape, integrating the vestiges of its Aztec and Spanish heritage with modern developments.

Culturally, referring to Mexico City as "grand" acknowledges the city's continued role as a significant cultural hub. Regardless of its colonial past, Mexico City evolved into a melting pot of indigenous, Spanish, and other worldwide influences, manifesting in its diverse art, architecture, and customs. Tylor's observation points to the strength and flexibility that have allowed Mexico City to prosper through the centuries, continually drawing viewers with its richness and depth.

Overall, Tylor's quote invites readers to think about Mexico City not simply through the lens of its past or present, however as a continuum of marvels that endure and captivate through its mix of history, geography, and culture.