The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Quiacatu
Also known as Acatu, Catu, Chiato
- Minor
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 13
Quiacatu is glimpsed through the shifting forms of his name, a ruler whose identity seems to pass through many tellings. The title Kaan suggests authority, while the variations around him give the brief reference an intriguing sense of distance and uncertainty.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Adult (late 13th century)
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 13
- Books
- 1
Quiacatu, the Kaan of Persia, is mentioned chiefly to illustrate how a ruler’s name changes across different versions of Marco Polo’s text. Acatu, Catu, Chiato, Achatu, and Chiacato are among the forms through which he is also known in those accounts. The book offers no fuller personal history or character arc, leaving him as both a historical sovereign and an example of the textual variations surrounding Polo’s record.
Description
Quiacatu is identified as a Mongol ruler and Kaan of Persia, but no physical traits are provided. His complexion, build, hair, eyes, facial features, and clothing are unspecified. The title indicates his station, not a particular appearance, so his visual portrait should remain open rather than assigning unsupported details.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Appearances
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