Why is Marco Polo more famous than Ibn Battuta? The relative fame of Marco Polo compared to Ibn Battuta can be attributed to several factors, including historical circumstances, cultural bias, and the availability and dissemination of their travel accounts.
Historical Timing:
Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta were both medieval travelers and explorers who documented their extensive journeys. However, Marco Polo’s travels occurred earlier, in the late 13th century (around 1271-1295), whereas Ibn Battuta’s travels took place in the 14th century (1325-1354). As a result, Marco Polo’s accounts became known to the European world before Ibn Battuta’s reached widespread recognition.
Venetian Republic Influence:
Marco Polo was from the Republic of Venice, a powerful maritime and trading state during the medieval period. Venice had strong trade connections with other parts of Europe and the East, which contributed to the dissemination of his accounts among influential merchants and intellectuals of the time.
The Book “Il Milione”:
Marco Polo’s travels were chronicled in the book “Il Milione” (also known as “The Travels of Marco Polo” or “The Description of the World”). The book became popular in Europe and was widely translated into various languages, allowing his experiences to reach a broader audience. On the other hand, Ibn Battuta’s account, known as “Rihla” (The Journey), was initially written in Arabic and had a slower spread outside of the Islamic world.
European Exploratory Era:
Marco Polo’s travels coincided with the beginning of the Age of Exploration in Europe, a period when European powers were actively seeking new trade routes and territories. His accounts, which included fascinating descriptions of the East and the Silk Road, captured the imagination of European readers and sparked interest in further exploration and trade with the Orient.
Cultural Bias and Western Perspective:
Historically, the Western world has often placed more emphasis on the accomplishments and contributions of European figures compared to those from other regions. This cultural bias has influenced the perception of historical figures like Marco Polo, who is often celebrated as a key explorer and trader between East and West.
It’s essential to note that both Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta made significant contributions to our understanding of medieval history, cultures, and trade networks. While Marco Polo might be more famous in the Western world, Ibn Battuta is highly regarded in the Islamic world, where he is recognized as one of the greatest travelers of his time. In recent years, efforts have been made to elevate Ibn Battuta’s recognition in the broader global context to better appreciate the contributions of travelers and explorers from various regions and cultures.
