The Travels by Marco Polo

The Travels by Marco Polo

The Travels of Marco Polo is a book that describes Polo’s travels through Asia between 1271 and 1295, and his experiences at the court of Kublai Khan. The book was written by romance writer Rustichello da Pisa, who worked from accounts which he had heard from Marco Polo when they were imprisoned together in Genoa.

The major theme of the book is the wonder and beauty of the Orient, which Polo explores and describes in great detail. Other themes include the importance of long-term goals and perseverance in achieving them, as well as the value of cultural exchange and understanding.

What I Liked

This book was one of those rare primary source books that’s actually fun to read. It’s the original crazy travel book (which is one of my favorite genres). Polo is hilarious and so well-traveled. It’s hard to believe some of the trips he endured (or didn’t actually endure). Great book to put you in a different place & time.

What I Did Not Like

It was written in the Middle Ages…top entertain and propagandize. So it requires a bit of effort and some healthy skepticism.

The Travels by Marco Polo
$15.85
The Travels of Marco Polo takes us on an adventurous journey through Asia in the late 13th century, detailing Polo's encounters, especially with Kublai Khan. Written by Rustichello da Pisa while they were both imprisoned, the book captures the wonder of the East and the value of perseverance and cultural exchange. I found it genuinely enjoyable—it's like the original travelogue, filled with humor and remarkable tales. However, being a product of the Middle Ages, it can be a bit of a slog at times, and you’ll need to keep a critical eye on some of the more extravagant claims. Overall, it’s a fun read that transports you to another time and place.
Pros:
  • The book is an engaging primary source that is enjoyable to read.
  • Marco Polo's humor and extensive travels make for an entertaining narrative.
  • It effectively transports readers to a different time and place.
Cons:
  • The medieval writing style requires effort and skepticism to fully appreciate.
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02/13/2025 09:12 pm GMT
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