The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation — Volume 09

This volume gathers the earliest English accounts of journeys into the far‑east, presenting a detailed portrait of the massive empire once ruled by the Great Khan. The author describes its twelve provinces, the bustling cities of Cathay, and the intricate hierarchy of regional kings who answer to a distant sovereign. Readers are introduced to vivid observations of local dress, market goods, and everyday life as seen through the eyes of 17th‑century travelers.

The narrative moves beyond geography, recording customs such as communal marriage practices, the production of silk and other textiles, and the ritual reverence for sun and moon. While the language reflects the period’s limited understanding, it captures the wonder and complexity of societies that were largely unknown to England at the time. Listening to this collection offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of early explorers and the rich cultural tapestry they encountered.