Mission to Asia

“Mission to Asia” by Christopher Dawson, published by University of Toronto Press in 1980, presents a detailed examination of the journeys undertaken by John of Plano Carpini and William of Rubruck to Mongolia in the mid-thirteenth century. This 2nd Revised edition spans 246 pages and is written in English. The narratives offer a unique perspective, diverging from typical accounts of the time, as the authors were not canonized saints but rather political envoys, providing an authentic glimpse into the early interactions between Western Christendom and the Far East during a period of significant upheaval.

Readers will find that the book delves into the historical context of these travels, highlighting the transformative events occurring across Asia and Europe during the era. The accounts serve as a vital record of the first encounters between these distinct cultures, capturing the essence of a world in transition. By focusing on the experiences of these two travelers, Dawson sheds light on the broader implications of their journeys amidst the backdrop of medieval history and the political dynamics of the time.