The Cosmography and Geography of Africa

The Cosmography and the Geography of Africa, written by al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Wazzan, a Moroccan diplomat, in 1518, was the first book about Africa and the first book written by a modern African to reach print. It remained central to the European understanding of Africa for over 300 years, describing the continent's lands, cities, peoples, culture, commerce, and warfare. Leo also invited his readers to acknowledge the similarity and relevance of these lands to their time and place, making it significant to our understanding of Africa and the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 560 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

In a remarkable turn of events, al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Wazzan, a Moroccan diplomat, found himself captured by pirates while traversing the Mediterranean in 1518. His fate led him to encounter Pope Leo X, who, through persuasive means, convinced al-Wazzan to embrace Christianity and adopt the name Johannes Leo Africanus. As his knowledge and reputation flourished within the papal court, Leo embarked on the composition of his magnum opus, The Cosmography and the Geography of Africa.

The Cosmography stands as a groundbreaking work, marking the first book dedicated to Africa and authored by a contemporary African. Its publication in print was a significant milestone, as it would shape European perceptions of the African continent for an astonishing span of over 300 years. Leo's vivid descriptions of the lands, cities, and peoples of Africa offered a unique perspective, capturing the essence of its urban vitality, rural desolation, cultural richness, economic activities, warfare, mystical herbs, and peculiar animals.

However, The Cosmography goes beyond mere exoticism, as Leo sought to draw parallels between these lands and the familiar world of his readers. He encouraged them to recognize the shared characteristics and relevance of Africa to their own experiences. As a result, The Cosmography and Geography of Africa continues to hold immense significance not only in our understanding of Africa but also in our broader comprehension of the world and the way we perceive it.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241543931