I AM SORRY I ACCIDENTLY POSTED ONLY PART OF MY COMMENT..

Continued..

Although it is very easy to get wrapped up in the lavish descriptions of wars and celebrations the main point of the book relates directly to all of our other readings; the connection between areas in the 15th century global system. Leo Africanus was one of the first detailed source of knowledge to Europeans about other parts of the world system. His travels were vast; he was taken prison in Rome, escaped to Istanbul and had many other global adventures. He represents the connection between the global system; the trade and travel that made our global system today possible.

Overall, I loved the first reading assignment of this book. Its was informative and fun to read. I also thought the portryal of women was accurate for this time period...but that is a completely different discussion..maybe for next time!