PREVIEW: Epochs #220 | Magellan: Part III

The Arabian Nights is a collection of stories that include fairy tales, romances, legends, fables, parables, anecdotes, and adventures. The frame story revolves around King Shahryar, who marries and kills a new wife each day after discovering his previous wife's infidelity. His vizier's daughter, Shahrazad, marries the king and saves her life by telling him a new story each night, leaving the story incomplete to keep him curious. The stories span various genres, including historical tales, love stories, tragedies, comedies, and more, drawing from the rich heritage of the Middle East, India, Persia, and other regions.

The "Travels of Sir John Mandeville" is a 14th-century travelogue that recounts fantastical journeys to the East. While often considered fictional, it reflects the European imagination of the time and the exotic lands beyond their known world. The book describes fantastical creatures, strange customs, and wondrous sights, blending elements of reality and fiction. It was incredibly popular during its time and influenced subsequent travel literature. Its enduring appeal lies in its imaginative storytelling and its reflection of the medieval worldview.

The book, also known as *Il Milione* or *Book of the Marvels of the World*, describes Marco Polo's travels from Venice to China and his time serving Kublai Khan. It provides a comprehensive look into the culture, politics, and geography of the Eastern world during the 13th century. The narrative includes descriptions of various regions such as China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia, and offers insights into the Mongol Empire and its operations. The book was written by Rustichello da Pisa based on Marco Polo's accounts while they were imprisoned together in Genoa.

In 'Over the Edge of the World', Laurence Bergreen vividly recounts the epic journey of Ferdinand Magellan, who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe. This book delves into the challenges, discoveries, and tragic events that marked this historic voyage. It was a *New York Times* 'Notable Book' for 2003 and a bestseller.

Pliny the Elder's Natural History is an encyclopedic work that covers a vast range of topics from the natural world. It is a monumental achievement of Roman scholarship, encompassing geography, zoology, botany, astronomy, and mineralogy, among other subjects. The work is characterized by its comprehensive scope, detailed descriptions, and incorporation of a wide range of sources. While not always scientifically accurate by modern standards, it remains a valuable source of information about the ancient world's understanding of nature and its resources. Its influence on subsequent naturalists and scholars is undeniable, making it a significant contribution to the history of science and knowledge.