The Legend of Prester John

The legend of Prester John, a mythical Christian king, emerged in 1165 and influenced European exploration and diplomacy for centuries. Initially linked to the Crusades, the myth inspired Europeans to seek allies in the East. Despite being a forgery, the legend persisted, leading explorers to search for Prester John's kingdom in Asia and Africa. Ethiopia was mistakenly identified as his realm, resulting in diplomatic ties with Europe. However, these relations soured, leading to conflict and the eventual fading of the legend.

What was the primary content of the letter that circulated in 1165?

• A description of a real kingdom

• A fantastical realm ruled by Prester John

• A scientific discovery

• A historical account of the Crusades

How did the myth of Prester John influence European leaders?

• It led to the discovery of America

• It inspired exploration and diplomacy

• It caused the fall of the Roman Empire

• It ended the Crusades

What was the European perception of Prester John during the Crusades?

• A Muslim leader

• A Roman emperor

• A powerful Christian king

• A mythical creature

What was the actual origin of the letter attributed to Prester John?

• A genuine letter from Prester John

• A Mongol document

• A Western forgery

• An Eastern forgery

Where did European missionaries and explorers search for Prester John's kingdom?

• In Antarctica

• In Australia

• In Central Asia and Africa

• In the Americas

Which country was eventually linked to the legend of Prester John?

• Brazil

• Ethiopia

• China

• India

What was the outcome of the Portuguese belief in finding Prester John's kingdom in Ethiopia?

• Immediate conflict and war

• Diplomatic relations that eventually soured

• A successful long-term alliance

• Complete rejection by Ethiopia

What strained the relationship between Ethiopia and Europe?

• Economic disputes

• Religious differences and conflicts

• Geographical distance

• Language barriers

What was the ultimate fate of the Prester John legend?

• It became a widely accepted historical fact

• It faded into oblivion

• It led to the discovery of a new continent

• It was proven to be true

Despite never existing, how did Prester John impact history?

• By inventing new technologies

• By leading a successful crusade

• By influencing exploration and diplomacy

• By uniting all Christian kingdoms