Question

Read: T&E, Pp. 448-471 THR, Pp. 381-387, 398-404, 416-419 (The Book of John Mandeville, Johann Bämler – Wondrous Fountains and Peoples, Marco Polo – The Million: A Description of the World, Ma Huan – The Overall Survey of the Ocean’s Shores) Christopher Columbus – A Letter Concerning Recently Discovered Islands (on D2L) Excerpt from Christopher Columbus’ Journal (on D2L) Discussion Question/Writing Assignment 26: Examine the bias inherent in Columbus’ letter (in THR), and in his journal (i.e., read between the lines). What do Columbus' goals appear to be with respect to the land and its inhabitants? Is there anything absent or unsaid here?

Answer 1

Columbus' bias in his letter and journal is evident in his portrayal of the land and its inhabitants and his goals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The bias inherent in Columbus' letter and journal can be seen through his goals and perceptions of the land and its inhabitants. Columbus believed he had reached Asia and wanted to impress his sponsors and be sent back again, so he portrayed the discovered lands as fertile, beautiful, and abundant in gold. He referred to the natives as subordinate and less civilized compared to Europeans. By reading between the lines, we can infer that Columbus was driven by the desire for wealth, glory, and to continue the fight against Islam.