Jehan de Mandeville, also known as Sir John Mandeville, is the name associated with a singular book of supposed travels, originally composed in Anglo-Norman French. Despite the often fantastical and unreliable nature of the journeys it details, this work achieved extraordinary popularity through translations into numerous languages. It served as a significant reference, notably influencing figures like Christopher Columbus, who drew inspiration from it alongside the earlier works of Marco Polo.
This reprint of a classic work originally published in 1883 brings back a significant piece of literature, preserving its historical context and themes. Readers can explore the perspectives and societal norms of the time, as the book reflects the author's insights and storytelling style from that era. The reissue allows both new readers and long-time fans to appreciate the text's enduring relevance and impact on literature.
the version of the Cotton manuscript in modern spelling : with three narratives, in illustration of it, from Hakluyt's "Navigations, voyages & discoveries"
The book holds significant value in literature, recognized by academicians and scholars alike. It serves as an important knowledge base for future generations. To ensure its lasting legacy, the book has been reprinted in its original format, preserving any marks or annotations to maintain its authenticity and true nature.
Being His Voyage and Travel Which Treateth of the Way to Jerusalem and of the Marvels of Ind with Other Islands and Countries; Edited and Profusely Illustrated by Arthur Layard
Set in the 14th century, this fascinating travel narrative follows Sir John Maundevile as he embarks on a journey to Jerusalem and explores the wonders of India and other distant lands. The book is richly illustrated, providing a vivid depiction of the marvels encountered along the way. Edited by Arthur Layard, this reprint preserves the essence of the original 1895 edition, offering readers a glimpse into the adventurous spirit and cultural encounters of the time.
One of the most influential books of the medieval period, John Mandeville's fourteenth-century work was written, ostensibly, to encourage and instruct pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. A thorough compendium of medieval lore, the travel book proved to be a great success throughout Europe. (Among his alleged readers were Leonardo da Vinci and Christopher Columbus.) The Travels professes to relate Mandeville's experiences in the Holy Land, Egypt, India, and China--where he served in the Great Khan's army--followed by his journey to "the lands beyond," countries populated by "dog-headed men, cannibals, Amazons, and pygmies." Five centuries after Mandeville recorded his observations in those distant lands, the volume's remarkably exacting accounts of events and geography were found to be probable fabrications. Nevertheless, the book's widespread popularity and influence make it essential to the study of medieval English literature. An engaging mix of fact and fantasy, enhanced with more than 100 rare woodcut illustrations, it has retained its place as one of the greatest and most entertaining works of early English vernacular prose.