An Atlas of Relations: The Middle East and Northern Europe Through the Eyes of the Traveler from the Tenth Century through the Early Eighteenth Century

Author

• Alexandra Enderle Kinney, CUNY Graduate CenterFollow

Date of Degree

6-2026

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Program

Comparative Literature

Advisor

Anna Akasoy

Subject Categories

Arabic Language and Literature | Arabic Studies | European Languages and Societies | Medieval Studies | Scandinavian Studies | Translation Studies

Keywords

Travelogues, Sagas, Arabic Literature, Scandinavian Literature

Abstract

While cultural relations between certain combinations of cultures have been well explored, others have been neglected, such as the Middle East and Northern Europe. Research on early encounters between the Middle East and Northern Europe, particularly Scandinavia, generally emphasizes trade as the main point of connection. While the role of trade is significant, it oversimplifies the complexities of their relations. Beyond the exchange of material goods, these two cultures hold a fascination with one another that differs from the relationship between the Middle East and Western Europe. Beginning in the tenth century through the early eighteenth century, it is possible to survey these encounters by means of travelogues. Though many of these travelogues have been studied individually, they have not been brought together over a greater length of time or necessarily with each other. This survey brings together travelogues from the tenth century to the early eighteenth century to explore the cultural relations between the Middle East and Northern Europe.

Recommended Citation

Kinney, Alexandra Enderle, "An Atlas of Relations: The Middle East and Northern Europe Through the Eyes of the Traveler from the Tenth Century through the Early Eighteenth Century" (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/6679