The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Lao-tse
Also known as Laokiun, Lao-tseu, Laotseu
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 94
Lao-tse arrives in the text as a name with an enduring philosophical resonance. Though no portrait is offered, the mention suggests a figure whose ideas outlast any image of the man himself.
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 94
- Books
- 1
Lao-tse is named as a Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism. The text gives no account of his personal journey, relationships, or physical appearance. He is present as a historical and philosophical reference rather than as an actively depicted character.
Description
No visual details are provided for Lao-tse. The account does not specify his age, build, complexion, hair, eyes, facial features, clothing, or any distinguishing marks, so these should remain undefined in a faithful portrait.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
- T
Tamba-Shi-Robreligious counterparts
Several writers cited in the text identify Lao-tse, founder of Taoism, with Shen-rabs, regarded as the founder or great doctor of the Bon religion; the identification is presented as debated.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Appearances
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