The Travels of Marco Polo · Character
Three Kings
Also known as Magi, Three
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 50
They are presented as travelers moving beneath the spell of a sacred mystery, their long journey ending in a wonder that reshapes what they believe. The account leaves their faces unrecorded, letting the image of three seekers and a small, potent secret do the work.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Adult
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 50
- Books
- 1
The Three Kings, also called the Magi, rode for many days before opening a little box containing a stone. They cast it into a well, where fire descended from heaven; carrying that fire back to their country, they placed it in a church. The account offers no further personal details about the three figures.
Description
The text identifies three adult male figures but gives no individual physical descriptions. Their complexions, hair, eyes, facial features, builds, and clothing are not specified, nor are any distinguishing marks or accessories. They are known collectively as the Three Kings or Magi, and any more detailed appearance would be conjecture.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
Jesus Christworshippers
The Three Kings travel to honor the newborn Jesus and present gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
- K
Koreshmessenger
In Mas’udi’s account, Koresh sends the three messengers to the Messiah bearing incense, myrrh, and gold.
- C
Childworshipper
The Three Kings interpret the Child’s acceptance of their gifts as proof that he is the True God, King, and Physician; they later carry sacred fire to their country and establish its worship.
- M
Maryrecipient of her hospitality
In the version of the Magi legend quoted from Mas’udi, Mary receives the kings’ messengers and gives them a round loaf; another tradition says she gives them one of the Child’s swaddling bands.
Story so far
BOOK 1The Travels of Marco Polo — Volume 1
Appearances
Meet Three Kings in Bookworm
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