Subject
Voyages and travels -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
John Mandeville
The Travels of Sir John Mandeville
"The Travels of Sir John Mandeville" by Sir John Mandeville is a travelogue written between 1357 and 1371 that claims to chronicle an Englishman's journey across the Near East to India and China. Blending fact with fantasy, this extraordinarily popular medieval work drew from various sources including Odoric of Pordenone and Armenian monk Hetoum. Though "Sir John Mandeville" was likely an invented author and many travels described are unreliable or fantastical, the book profoundly influenced explorers like Christopher Columbus, serving as a curious mix of pilgrimage guide and exotic wonder tale.
William Lithgow
The Totall Discourse of the Rare Adventures & Painefull Peregrinations of Long Nineteene Yeares Travayles from Scotland to the most famous Kingdomes in Europe, Asia and Affrica
"The Totall Discourse of the Rare Adventures & Painefull Peregrinations" by William Lithgow is a travel narrative that chronicles the author's extensive journeys across Europe, Asia, and Africa during the early 17th century. This work details Lithgow's personal experiences, including the trials and tribulations he faced during his travels, making it a unique historical account infused with adventure and peril. It also touches upon cultural observations and critiques, particularly regarding the places he visited. The opening of the narrative presents Lithgow's motivations for undertaking such adventurous trips, alluding to a mysterious wrong that spurred his departure from Scotland. Lithgow reflects on the nature of travel, expressing both the joy and the suffering inherent in exploration. He emphasizes the transformative power of journeys, bringing insight and wisdom, and hints at the dangers he faced, particularly referencing his time in Malaga, Spain, where he was imprisoned and tortured by the Inquisition. Through his vivid storytelling, he sets the stage for an engaging account filled with historical anecdotes, reflections on human behavior, and a critique of contemporary society.
Johannes Schiltberger
The Bondage and Travels of Johann Schiltberger, a Native of Bavaria, in Europe, Asia, and Africa, 1396-1427
"The Bondage and Travels of Johann Schiltberger" is a historical account written in the early 15th century. This work details the adventures and experiences of Johann Schiltberger, a Bavarian who was captured by the Turks and spent many years in their service, traversing various regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The book provides a unique perspective on medieval society, warfare, and the author's observations as he navigated through different cultures and conflicts during his captivity. At the start of the narrative, Schiltberger introduces himself, recounting how he left his home near Munich in 1394 to follow his master, Leonard Richartinger, only to be taken prisoner after the Battle of Nicopolis in 1396. He vividly describes the battle details, the pride and folly exhibited by different lords, and the aftermath of defeat, where many prisoners are executed while he, due to his youth, is spared and subsequently becomes a servant to the victorious Turkish king, Weyasit. The opening portions set the stage for his extensive travels and encounters with various cultures, hinting at the rich tapestry of experiences and adventures that follow throughout his life as a captive.
Unknown
A Description of the Coasts of East Africa and Malabar in the Beginning of the Sixteenth Century
"A Description of the Coasts of East Africa and Malabar in the Beginning of the Sixteenth Century" by Duarte Barbosa is a historical account likely written in the early 16th century. This work offers a detailed description of the trade routes, seaports, and the various cultural practices along the East African and Malabar coasts during a key period in maritime history. The narrative is rich with observations regarding commerce, religion, and the daily lives of the people Barbosa encountered, painting a vivid picture of early globalization. The opening of this narrative introduces the author as Duarte Barbosa, a Portuguese who has dedicated his experiences in the Indies to writing a comprehensive report for future generations. He outlines the geographical features from the Cape of Good Hope to various important towns and trading centers like Sofala and Mombasa, emphasizing their economic significance and the interactions among different cultures. Barbosa details the products traded, the local customs of the inhabitants, and the Portuguese endeavors to establish influence in these territories. This beginning serves as a promising entry into the complexities of commerce and cultural exchange during a pivotal moment in history.
Catalani Jordanus
Mirabilia descripta: The wonders of the East
"Mirabilia descripta: The Wonders of the East" by Friar Jordanus is a travel narrative written in the 14th century. This work documents the author's experiences and observations during his travels in India and surrounding regions, blending factual descriptions with tales of marvels and curiosities that reflect the author's credulity and the medieval perspective on exotic lands. The text navigates through various cultures, natural phenomena, and wonders, offering a glimpse into the world as seen through the eyes of a fourteenth-century missionary. At the start of the narrative, Jordanus sets a tone of awe and wonder as he recounts extraordinary phenomena observed during his travels. He describes a remarkable whirlpool located between Sicily and Calabria, provides insights into the fables of Armenia, and recounts tales of animals and people in Persia, highlighting the peculiarities of their culture and customs. His descriptions convey a mix of fantastical elements, such as winged cats and vast serpents, alongside genuine geographical and ethnographic observations, demonstrating both his keen observation skills and the mystical allure of the East as perceived in the medieval era.
Mary Wortley Montagu
Letters of the Right Honourable Lady M—y W—y M—e Written during Her Travels in Europe, Asia and Africa to Persons of Distinction, Men of Letters, &c. in Different Parts of Europe
"Letters of the Right Honourable Lady M—y W—y M—e" by Lady Mary Wortley Montagu is a collection of travel letters written in the early 18th century. This work captures the experiences and observations of Lady Mary during her journeys across Europe, Asia, and Africa, offering insights into her interactions with various cultures, especially the Turks. It presents a unique perspective on the society and customs of the time, particularly from the angle of a woman navigating through regions traditionally dominated by male travelers. The opening of the book introduces the author’s journey as she writes letters to her friends and acquaintances about her travels, starting with her passage from Rotterdam. Lady Mary shares her reflections on various places she visits, describing the cleanliness and liveliness of Rotterdam, joyful details about her excursions, and her impressions of the Dutch towns. Her letters are characterized by a lively and engaging tone, showcasing her keen observations of local customs, the people she encounters, and her broader thoughts on society as a woman of her era. These initial letters set the stage for a vivid account of Lady Mary’s adventures and her insightful commentary on 18th-century life.
John Ray
Mr. Ray's travels, Vol. 2 : $b A collection of curious travels and voyages. Containing Dr Leonhart Rauwolf's journey into the eastern countries, viz. Syria, Palestine, or the Holy Land, Armenia, Mesopotamia, Assyria, Chaldea, &c., translated from the Original High Dutch, by Nicholas Staphorst. And also, travels into Greece, Asia minor, Egypt, Arabia felix, Petræa, Ethiopia, the Red Sea, &c. Collected from the observations of Mons. Belon, Prosper Alpinus, Dr. Huntington, Mr. Vernon, Sir George Wheeler, Dr. Smith, Mr. Greaves, and others. To which are added three catalogues of such trees, shrubs, and herbs, as grow in the Levant. By the Rev. John Ray, F.R.S.
"Mr. Ray's travels, Vol. 2 : A collection of curious travels and voyages.…." by John Ray is a collection of travel narratives and natural history observations written in the mid-18th century. It gathers translated journeys and reports focused on the Levant and wider Ottoman world—Greece, Asia Minor, Egypt, Arabia, and Ethiopia—emphasizing geography, customs, trade, and plants. Readers will find firsthand itineraries enriched with ethnographic detail and long botanical lists compiled from multiple travelers. The opening of this volume lays out an extensive table of contents and then begins Dr. Leonhart Rauwolf’s travelogue into the Eastern Mediterranean. He states his botanical aims, travels overland from Augsburg to Marseilles noting towns and plants, and then undertakes a stormy, wind-driven passage past Sardinia, Sicily, Crete, and Cyprus, including a brief audience with an Ottoman officer at Salamis, before reaching Tripoli. On arrival he describes a scuffle at the gate and then sketches Tripoli’s setting, irrigated gardens and fruits, flat-roofed houses, narrow paved streets, caravanserais, and especially the public baths and their routines (washing, depilation, and massage). He surveys trade and governance: European consuls and fondiques, bustling bazaars, silk and raisin commerce, soap and potash making from local halophytic plants, coinage, and the roles of Ottoman officials and courts, with examples of both punishments and corruption alongside avenues of appeal. Rauwolf also notes everyday manners—dress, music and games, washing habits, women’s seclusion and cemetery visits, and funeral customs. The section closes by starting a catalog of local flora around Tripoli, from shore plants to ricinus, squills, and sugar-canes.
Royal Society (Great Britain)
Miscellanea Curiosa, Vol. 3 containing a collection of curious travels, voyages, and natural histories of countries as they have been delivered in to the Royal Society
"Miscellanea Curiosa, Vol. 3" by the Royal Society is a scientific publication written in the early 18th century. This volume compiles a collection of curious travels, voyages, and natural histories, particularly highlighting observations submitted to the Royal Society. It promises to engage readers interested in exploration, geography, and early scientific inquiry into various regions, especially those exploring the intersection of Europe and the Eastern world. The opening of this volume begins with an advertisement for newly published globes featuring recent discoveries in geography and astronomy, indicating the publication's emphasis on factual representation and scientific pursuits. Following this, it presents an account of a voyage in 1668 from England to Constantinople, narrated by Thomas Smith, detailing the maritime journey and the experiences of the ship’s crew as they navigate through various challenges, including harsh weather and encounters with local geography. The text emphasizes observations on tides, weather, and the sights seen along the way, setting a detailed and factual tone that characterizes the entire volume.
Donald Campbell
A journey over land to India
"A Journey Over Land to India" by Donald Campbell is a historical account written in the late 18th century. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters to Campbell's son, detailing his travels and experiences while making a journey from Europe to India, including his shipwreck, imprisonment by Hyder Ali, and subsequent transactions in the East. The book likely explores themes of adventure, survival, and the complexities of intercultural exchanges during a tumultuous period of colonial expansion. At the start of the journey, Campbell reflects on his motivations for undertaking this arduous trek, prompted by personal and financial difficulties following the death of his children and a lack of support from his father. The opening letters reveal his emotional state as he embarks on the journey from London, filled with foreboding yet accompanied by a fellow traveler, General Lockhart. His depiction of various locales, like Ostend and Bruges, sets the stage for a rich commentary on the political and cultural landscapes of the places he traverses, while also emphasizing the importance of education and moral reflection as he documents his adventures.
John Mandeville
The Voiage and Travayle of Sir John Maundeville Knight Which treateth of the way towards Hierusalem and of marvayles of Inde with other ilands and countreys
"The Voiage and Travayle of Sir John Maundeville Knight" by Sir John Mandeville is a travelogue written between 1357 and 1371. This fantastical account claims to chronicle an Englishman's journey across the Near East to India and China, beginning in 1332. The work blends borrowed passages from genuine travel narratives with legendary tales of monsters, exotic customs, and distant lands. Despite its unreliable nature, it became extraordinarily popular and influenced explorers like Christopher Columbus. The true author remains a mystery.
Unknown
Miscellanea Curiosa, Vol. 1 Containing a collection of some of the principal phaenomena in nature, accounted for by the greatest philosophers of this age
"Miscellanea Curiosa, Vol. 1" by Edmond Halley et al. is a scientific publication written in the early 18th century. This volume consists of a collection of discourses and discoveries presented to the Royal Society, focusing on various phenomena in nature, mathematical inquiries, and influences on human health. This compilation aims to distill significant findings from the journals of the Royal Society, making complex scientific ideas accessible to a broader audience. The beginning of "Miscellanea Curiosa" introduces the intent of the compilation as a means to organize and summarize key philosophical and mathematical discoveries that contribute to the advancement of science and the betterment of life. Halley emphasizes the importance of prior scrutiny by the learned community on these theories to ensure their credibility. He sets the stage for the volume's contents, which include discussions on atmospheric vapors, theories of tides, variations in magnetic compasses, and numerous other scientific inquiries, all crucial for understanding natural phenomena and improving navigational practices.
William Dampier
A Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699
"A Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699" by William Dampier is a historical account written in the early 18th century. This travelogue details Dampier's observations and experiences from his voyage to various exotic locations, including the Canary Islands, Brazil, and New Holland (now Australia), offering insights into the inhabitants, their cultures, and the natural environment he encountered. The work is notable for its combination of personal narrative with geographical and ethnographical observations, written in an engaging style that aims to inform and entertain. At the start of the book, Dampier recounts his departure from the Downs and the course of his journey across the Atlantic Ocean, making stops at the Canary Islands and the Cape Verde Islands. He provides detailed descriptions of these locations, discussing their geography, local customs, trade, and natural resources, while also sharing practical navigation tips and cautionary advice for other sailors. The opening sets a tone of exploration and discovery, emphasizing the challenges of long sea voyages and establishing a framework for the rich and informative accounts that will follow about other regions he visits throughout his travels.
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