The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Bendocquedar
Also known as Bondogar
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 30
Bendocquedar’s presence is felt as power at a distance: a ruler whose name carries the weight of armies and a far-reaching court. There is a hard, imposing stillness to the figure the account evokes, though it leaves his face and manner undescribed.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Middle-aged adult
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 30
- Books
- 1
Born in Kipchak, Bendocquedar was sold in Damascus and bought by the amir Aláuddín Aidekín Bundúḳdár before rising to become the fourth Mameluke sultan of Egypt. He ruled from 1259 to 1276, his power reaching into the lands through which the Polo brothers travelled. The book presents him as a formidable political force, while offering little about his private character or appearance.
Description
The text identifies Bendocquedar as a native of Kipchak and a Mameluke sultan, but gives no concrete description of his appearance. His height, build, complexion, hair, eyes, facial features, and attire are not specified; a dignified, authoritative bearing is the only visual impression suggested by his rank.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
Maffeo Polomilitary adversary
The Sultan’s campaign in Hermenia threatens Maffeo and his fellow travelers.
Marco Polomilitary adversary
Bendocquedar’s invasion creates a serious danger for Marco and the traveling party.
Nicolo Polomilitary adversary
Bendocquedar’s invasion of Hermenia places Nicolo and the other envoys in danger of capture or death.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Appearances
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