The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Pietro of Abano
Also known as Pietro
- Minor
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 15
Pietro of Abano comes across as a mind drawn toward questions that others leave settled, bringing a physician’s learning to the mysteries of the world. His reputation rests on intellectual reach and inquiry, giving his brief presence the charged stillness of a debate not yet finished.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Born 1250, died 1316
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 15
- Books
- 1
Born at Abano near Padua in 1250, Pietro of Abano became a celebrated physician and philosopher and taught medicine at the University of Padua. He knew Marco Polo personally and regarded him as an unusually far-ranging traveller and diligent inquirer. His arguments against the old belief that the equatorial regions could not be inhabited reveal a mind unwilling to accept inherited limits. He twice escaped the reach of the Inquisition, and his life ended in 1316.
Description
The text identifies Pietro of Abano as a male physician and philosopher, born in 1250, but does not describe his appearance. His height, build, complexion, hair, eyes, facial features, clothing, and any distinguishing marks are unspecified; no visual traits should be inferred from his profession or reputation.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
Marco Poloacquaintance
Pietro says he knew Marco personally and learned geographical observations from him, describing him as an exceptionally extensive traveller and diligent inquirer.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Appearances
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