Cathay
Sub-Locations
Detailed Involvements
Events with rich location context
Cathay is the expansive eastern region under Mongol dominion in 1289, serving as the political backdrop for Polo's service and exile. The mention of Cathay underscores the group's dependence on Polo's caravan and the precariousness of their situation within Kublai Khan's domain. Cathay's windswept steppes and imperial intrigue define its distant allure from the Pamir tents, highlighting the power imbalances and the companions' stranding in a foreign land.
Imperial and oppressive, evoking a sense of foreignness and the companions' vulnerability.
Political backdrop and setting for Polo's service and exile, highlighting the group's dependence on Polo's caravan.
Represents the power and reach of Kublai Khan's domain, as well as the companions' stranding in a foreign land.
Cathay, as Kublai Khan’s domain, serves as the political and geographical context for Polo’s 18-year exile and his desperate bid to return to Venice. The mention of Cathay frames Polo’s story, highlighting his longing for home and the constraints of his service to the Khan. It also underscores the companions’ stranding in a foreign and potentially hostile land, where Polo’s authority and the Khan’s influence are absolute. The vastness of Cathay amplifies the stakes of Polo’s gamble and the companions’ vulnerability.
Vast, windswept, and politically charged, evoking the expansive and unyielding nature of Mongol rule.
Geographical and political backdrop for Polo’s exile and the companions’ predicament, symbolizing the power of Kublai Khan’s empire.
Represents the companions’ isolation and dependence on Polo’s goodwill, as well as the high stakes of his desperate plan.
Controlled by Kublai Khan’s authority; travel and resources are subject to his seal and Polo’s influence.
Events at This Location
Everything that happens here
Marco Polo seizes control of the TARDIS, revealing his 18-year exile in Cathay and his desperation to return to Venice. He proposes offering the TARDIS as a gift to Kublai …
The Doctor’s unraveling begins when Marco Polo, desperate to return to Venice after eighteen years of service to Kublai Khan, seizes control of the TARDIS as a gift to secure …