The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Caliph
Also known as Califus, Caliph of Baudas, Roy-Calife
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 13
He is introduced through the weight of his office: a ruler whose authority reaches across a city and its communities of faith. There is an unexpected openness in his regard for Christians, lending his presence a quiet tension between inherited power and personal conviction.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Adult
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 13
- Books
- 1
This Caliph rules in Baudas and summons Christians within his territory, a gesture shaped by the memory of a father who loved them. Cousin to Polibans, he is remembered as a ruler whose choices cross the boundaries of faith. He ultimately converts to Christianity and takes the name Bauduin, transforming the religious meaning of his public identity.
Description
The text identifies him as an adult male Islamic ruler but gives no concrete account of his face, complexion, hair, eyes, height, or build. No scars, jewelry, or other distinguishing features are specified. His appearance is therefore best conveyed through the formal presence of a sovereign, without assigning unsupported physical traits or a detailed costume.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
- P
Polibanscousin
Polibans is the Caliph's cousin; their bond is strained when Polibans openly adopts Christianity and the Caliph imprisons him.
Jesus Christsecret convert
After witnessing the miracle, the caliph is baptized in secret and is later found to have worn a small cross.
- BD
Baudouin de Sebourcconvert
Baudouin's faith and miracles lead the Caliph to convert to Christianity, release Polibans, and ultimately surrender his kingdom.
- BS
Blessed Soulopponent
The cobbler’s prayer answers the caliph’s challenge to the Christians and results in the miraculous movement of the mountain.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Key events
Appearances
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