Please read the following three documents and write a short essay on the reaction of Europeans to the incredible things they saw in their travels. Explain why you think this drove Europeans to search for a shorter, easier route to Asia.

(Links to an external site.)

Document 10.1 Marco Polo, “Observations of Cambaluc [Beijing],” from “The Travels of Marco Polo,” (1298 c.e.) (Links to an external site.)

Document 10.2 John of Monte Corvino, “A Letter from China [excerpt],” (1305 c.e.) (Links to an external site.)

Document 10.3 Marco Polo, Venetian Traveler and Merchant. “Book of Marvels…” illustration by Masters Boucicaut and Bedford.