How Did Marco Polos Travels Shape European Percept
How Did Marco Polo's Travels Shape European Perception of China?
Marco Polo, a Venetian merchant and explorer, is renowned for his extensive travels along the Silk Road. His journey to China during the reign of Kublai Khan in the late 13th century not only expanded European knowledge about Eastern cultures but also significantly influenced their perception of China. This article delves into how Marco Polo's experiences shaped Europe's understanding of Chinese history, culture, and politics.
Intrigued by tales of exotic lands and untold riches, Marco Polo set off on an adventure that would span over two decades. His travels took him through present-day Turkey, Persia (modern-day Iran), Central Asia, and eventually reached the court of Kublai Khan in modern-day Beijing. During his time in China, he was exposed to various aspects of Chinese society - from its customs and traditions to its economic systems.
Marco Polo's most significant contribution was sharing his observations with Europeans upon returning home. His accounts were documented in "Il Milione" or "The Travels," which provided a unique window into Chinese life for Western readers. The book became a bestseller across Europe during the 14th century.
One fascinating aspect that caught European attention was China's vast territory and population size. For centuries before Marco Polo's visit, Europeans had believed Earth to be flat with four continents: Africa-Eurasia-Asia-Antarctica (AEAA). However, as described in "The Travels," Marco Polo mentioned encounters with diverse ethnic groups living within this single landmass known as Cathay – now called Mainland Asia or simply Asia.
Europeans were also captivated by descriptions of advanced technology such as gunpowder production; silk manufacturing; porcelain craftsmanship; paper money circulation; postal system efficiency; urban planning like Hangzhou’s canal network cityscape resembling Venice'; astronomical advancements like accurate water clocks measuring time more accurately than any mechanical clock at home', etcetera
Furthermore , Europeans learned about Buddhism spreading rapidly throughout East Asia since it originated from India around 500 BCE . They read stories about Buddhist temples being built under patronage by emperors including Tang Dynasty Emperor Taizong who even wrote poems praising Buddha
However , despite all these positive impressions & fascination with 'the Orient' there existed skepticism towards some aspects too . As for instance they found hard to believe accounts regarding high levels social mobility - where people could rise up from lowly backgrounds through meritocracy rather than birthright . This challenged traditional feudal hierarchy prevalent back home
In conclusion , Marco Polo played an instrumental role shaping European perception toward Chinese history & culture especially after publishing "The Travels." He helped dispel myths surrounding geography while introducing them to new concepts such as paper money usage ; gunpowder invention ; porcelain production techniques amongst other things .
By reading narratives penned by one man who spent years living among them , many Europeans gained deeper insights into what made ancient civilization so prosperous yet still mysterious Their imagination fueled curiosity driving further exploration leading future travelers setting foot on foreign soil
This has been just one small piece within larger narrative that continues unfolding today As we learn more about world beyond our own borders we become closer neighbors strengthening ties between us We owe much gratitude toward pioneers like Mr.Polo whose endeavors paved way making possible exchange ideas knowledge fostering cross-cultural understanding
