Ītzpāpālōtl - from Mexica mythology is a death goddess who ruled over the afterlife for women who died in childbirth and guarded by the Tzitzimime (star demons). Her name translates to Obisidian Butterfly and she was heavily associated with Rothschildia orizaba moth and obsidian. Most iconography of her depicts her with butterfly wings made from stone blades and as a beautiful seductress or in a terrible skeletal form.
One of the elements of mesoamerican mythology that resonates so strongly with me is all of the deities and stories regarding women. Many goddesses are described with ferocity, independence and passion. Traditions and beliefs around childbirth extend beyond the idea that a women’s sole role is to produce children. Childbirth was likened to that of warriors in battle and dying during it earned you the same honor. Bringing life into the world was venerated but also respected for the danger it poses. It was not a woman’s duty but rather a woman’s gift.