The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone | A Review
The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone A Review
“The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone”- A Review
“The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone” is a book written by Odoric of Pordenone, an Italian Franciscan friar and traveler who lived in the 14th century. The book is an account of his travels through Asia, including China, India, and Southeast Asia, and provides a unique perspective on the region during the time.
The book is divided into three parts. The first part covers Odoric’s journey from Venice to the Black Sea and his travels through the Crimean Peninsula, the Caucasus Mountains, and Persia. The second part covers his travels through India, where he visited several important cities, including Delhi, Agra, and Madurai. The third part covers his travels through Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, and China, where he spent the majority of his time.
One of the strengths of the book is its vivid descriptions of the places Odoric visited. He provides detailed descriptions of the landscapes, the people, and their customs, which gives the reader a sense of what life was like in these places during the 14th century. For example, he describes the Great Wall of China as “so large that 10 horsemen can ride on it abreast,” and he provides a detailed account of the customs of the people he encountered in Southeast Asia.
Another strength of the book is its historical value. It is one of the few surviving accounts of life in Asia during the 14th century, and it provides valuable insights into the political and cultural landscape of the time. Odoric was a firsthand witness to many important events, including the fall of the Mongol Empire, the rise of the Ming Dynasty in China, and the spread of Islam in Southeast Asia.
However, the book also has some weaknesses. For example, Odoric’s account is heavily influenced by his Christian worldview, and he often views the people he encounters through a lens of religious superiority. Additionally, his account contains many errors and exaggerations, which can make it difficult for modern readers to separate fact from fiction.
Overall, “The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone” is an important historical document that provides a unique perspective on life in Asia during the 14th century. While it has its limitations, it is a valuable resource for scholars and anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. 0 0 0.
The Narrative of the Journey of Odoric of Pordenone A Review
N.B. The article originally belongs to the book entitled ‘Reviews of Some Iconic Travelogues‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
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