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Biography
Marco Polo: Journey to the East
This Biography chronicles the life and travels of Marco Polo. Polo's written account of his travels became one of the most famous books in world history, and is credited with being the inspiration for Christopher Colombus's voyages. Polo's book offered Europe its first contact with the east and the riches that lay beyond the charted world. Marco Polo: Journey to the East would be useful for classes on European history, Asian history, Middle Eastern history, Renaissance history, journalism and geography. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Vocabulary
Discussion Questions
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Why did Europeans doubt the truthfulness of Marco Polo's book?
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Travel in the 13th century was hazardous at best. Why would Marco Polo, along with his uncle and father, embark on so dangerous a journey?
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Do you think Marco Polo really reached China? Why or why not?
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What influence did Polo's travels and book have on the course of world history?
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Before Cathay (China) was conquered by Ghengis Khan, it did not allow foreigners into the country. What do you think was the reason for this policy?
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Discuss the changes that Marco Polo may have encountered when he returned to Venice after being away for twenty-three years.
Extended Activities
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On a global map chart the travel route of Marco Polo. Chart both his overland route to Cathay, and his naval route back to Venice.
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Imagine you are a member of Polo's caravan. Create a travel diary telling of your experiences and all the wonderful strange sights you might see.
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Imagine that you are a reporter assigned to travel with Marco Polo. What aspect of the trip would you want most to tell your readers?
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Your editor also wants you to interview Kubla Khan. What are the questions you would ask of one of the world's greatest conquerors?
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