The image of Genghis Khan in medieval European sources
The article discusses reflection of Genghis Khan’ image in medieval European sources: official and private correspondence, reports of missions, and historical writings. Apparently, none of the Europeans could see Genghis Khan, so all the information about him was obtained second-hand. His image was transformed in the minds of Westerners: before the Mongols appeared in Europe, he was represented as a Christian king of India; in the middle of the XIII century - as a robber and even the Antichrist; and at the boundary of the XIII and XIV centuries he turned into a wise, successful leader. Genghis Khan was also known to Europeans as a prophet and legislator. Legends about transfer to him a power over all peoples by heavenly messengers have also reached Europe. In general, European medieval historiography brings us a negative image of this man.