Join distinguished literature professor Sharon Kinoshita, a Marco Polo translator, and comedian Ria Lina as they explore the adventurous life of history's most famous traveler. They delve into Marco Polo's epic 24-year journey to China, the wonders of the Mongol empire, and his extraordinary encounters, including the fascinating postal service and diamond-hunting eagles. Amid laughs, they also discuss his legacy, cultural exchanges, and the peculiarities of his later life, revealing how his stories influenced future explorers like Columbus.
Marco Polo's journeys began in 1271 with his father and uncle, highlighting the significant ties between family lineage and exploration.
During his 24 years in the Mongol Empire, Polo not only observed cultural practices but also reported on innovations like paper money and a sophisticated postal service.
Polo's imprisonment led to the writing of 'The Description of the World,' which profoundly influenced European perceptions of Asia and inspired future explorations.
Deep dives
Marco Polo's Background and Family
Marco Polo was born in 1254 in Venice to a merchant family, which positioned him well for exploration. His father, Niccolo, and uncle, Maffeo, were crucial figures as they traveled to Asia and encountered the Mongol Empire before Marco joined them. Although details about his childhood are sparse, it's noted that he came from a family engaged in trade, which was significant for social standing during that time. The Polos had a history with the Mongol court, setting the stage for Marco's later travels and experiences.
The Journey to the Mongol Empire
In 1271, Marco Polo set out for the Mongol Empire alongside his father and uncle, embarking on a journey that would last 24 years. They navigated through various regions, heading towards the court of Kublai Khan, where they were well-received due to their familial ties. Marco's status as a young adult allowed him to grow and learn in this cosmopolitan environment, experiencing diverse cultures and customs. The journey was pivotal, not only for Marco's personal development but also for his future narratives about the East.
Life and Observations in the Mongol Empire
During his lengthy stay, Marco Polo became an important part of Kublai Khan's court, observing and reporting life in the Mongol Empire. He documented various aspects, such as the advanced postal system and the use of paper money, both significant innovations of the time. Polo's writings reflect a unique perspective on the customs of the societies he encountered, including intriguing insights into the lives of women he described as valued for their sexual experience in certain Tibetan cultures. His accounts provide a wealth of information about trade, governance, and social practices that would later impact European understanding of Asia.
Return to Venice and Imprisonment
In 1295, after over two decades of exploration, Marco Polo returned to Venice, only to find himself embroiled in the city’s political conflicts shortly after. Within four years, he was captured during a naval skirmish with Genoa and found himself imprisoned. It was during this time in jail that he dictated his experiences to Rustichello, leading to the creation of 'The Description of the World.' This book would become seminal in shaping European views of Asia and adventure, even though much of its material was not a straightforward travel narrative.
Enduring Legacy of Marco Polo's Travels
Marco Polo's accounts gained immense popularity in medieval Europe, becoming a bestseller after being translated into Latin and other languages. His observations not only sparked interest in Asian cultures but also influenced explorers like Christopher Columbus, who read them before embarking on his voyages. Despite the challenges he faced—such as imprisonment and societal upheaval—Marco Polo's insights into the East contributed to the growing curiosity and desire for trade with Asia. His legacy as a traveler continues to inspire modern explorations and studies of intercultural exchanges.
Greg Jenner is joined in 13th-Century Venice by Professor Sharon Kinoshita and comedian Ria Lina to learn all about medieval traveller Marco Polo and his adventures in China.
Born into a family of merchants, in 1271 a teenage Marco set out for the court of the Mongol emperor Qubilai Khan with his father and uncle. They would not return to Italy for nearly a quarter of a century. In the service of the emperor, the Polos saw all manner of extraordinary things – including the Mongols' amazing imperial postal service and diamond-hunting eagles in India. Imprisoned by the Genoese on his eventual return, Polo spent his time in prison writing his Description of the World with the Arthurian romance author Rustichello, a travelogue describing his exploits in the East and the wonders he had seen. This episode explores Polo’s extraordinary life, the decades he spent travelling in China and beyond, and the fascinating account he wrote on his return.
If you’re a fan of epic voyages, luxurious royal courts and medieval travel writing, you’ll love our episode on Marco Polo.
If you want more from Ria Lina, check out our episode on pirate queen Zheng Yi Sao. For more on the Mongols listen to our episode on Genghis Khan, and for more medieval travel writers, there's our episode on medieval Muslim explorer Ibn Battuta.
You’re Dead To Me is the comedy podcast that takes history seriously. Every episode, Greg Jenner brings together the best names in history and comedy to learn and laugh about the past.
Hosted by: Greg Jenner
Research by: Hannah Cusworth
Written by: Hannah Cusworth, Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner
Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
Production Coordinator: Ben Hollands
Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse
Executive Editor: Philip Sellars
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