Travels of Friar Odoric | A Review
‘Travels of Friar Odoric’-A Review
The “Travels of Friar Odoric” is a travelogue written by the Italian Franciscan friar Odoric of Pordenone, who lived in the 14th century. In this book, Odoric narrates his journey through the East, including India, China, and Southeast Asia. The travelogue was first published in Latin in the 14th century and has since been translated into several languages.
One of the most remarkable features of Odoric’s travelogue is its vivid and detailed descriptions of the places he visited, the people he met, and their customs and traditions. The book provides a fascinating insight into the medieval world and offers a unique perspective on the East from a Western traveler’s point of view. The account of his journey is not just a travelogue but also an ethnographic and cultural study of the regions he visited.
Odoric’s description of India is particularly interesting, as he provides a detailed account of the Hindu religion, its gods, and rituals. He also describes the life of the Indian people, their customs and traditions, and the caste system. Odoric’s observations of Chinese culture are equally fascinating. He describes the Chinese way of life, their cuisine, their beliefs, and their art. He also gives a detailed account of the Chinese language, its writing system, and the use of paper.
Another remarkable feature of Odoric’s travelogue is his encounters with different religious and ethnic groups. He had close interactions with Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, and he provides valuable insight into their beliefs, practices, and way of life. His encounters with the Mongols, who were then a powerful empire, also provide a fascinating glimpse into the politics and society of the period.
The book’s language is simple and easy to read, which makes it accessible to a wider audience. The descriptions are well-written and evoke the senses, making the reader feel like they are traveling with Odoric. The author’s use of dialogue and anecdotes also adds to the book’s appeal and makes it an engaging read.
However, the book also has some limitations. Odoric’s account is limited by his own cultural biases and perspectives, and he often makes assumptions and judgments about the people he encounters. Additionally, the book does not provide a comprehensive view of the regions he visited, as it is based on his personal experiences and observations.
Overall, “The Travels of Friar Odoric” is an important historical document that offers valuable insight into the medieval world and the East-West relations of the period. The book’s vivid descriptions and engaging style make it an enjoyable and informative read, and its cultural and ethnographic observations provide a unique perspective on the regions and peoples of the East. 0 0 0.
Travels of Friar Odoric A Review
N.B. The article originally belongs to the book entitled ‘Reviews of Some Iconic Travelogues‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
Books of Literary Criticism by M. Menonimus:
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- Critical Essays on English Poetry
- Tawfiq al-Hakim’s Novel: Return of the Spirit-An Analytical Study
- Tawfiq al-Hakim’s Novel: ‘Yawmiyyat Naib Fil Arayaf’-An Analytical Study
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- A Brief History of Arabic Literature: Pre-Islamic Period (500 AD-622 AD)
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