Read the excerpt from chapter 8 of the travels of Marco Polo. Why does the author include information about the dry climate? To explain why the sheep have horns but no ears. To explain why the sheep in the region are so small. To explain why people in the region have to feed their animals. To explain why there are are such large quantities of fish available.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is “To explain why people in the region have to feed their animals.”
In Chapter 8 of The Travels of Marco Polo, the author describes various aspects of the region, including the dry climate. This detail is included to help explain the environmental challenges faced by the people and their livestock. A dry climate, which typically means limited rainfall, directly affects the availability of natural grazing resources for animals. Without sufficient rain, the land cannot support abundant natural vegetation, which in turn impacts the food available to the animals that depend on grazing.
In the context of the passage, the information about the dry climate helps explain why the local inhabitants must feed their animals with supplementary food. These animals, such as sheep, may not have access to enough fresh forage to sustain themselves in such an arid environment, which is why their owners need to provide additional feed. This is an essential piece of information, as it highlights the human role in ensuring the survival of livestock in harsh climates, where natural resources are insufficient to meet the needs of animals.
Additionally, this detail provides insight into the broader living conditions in the region. In environments with extreme dryness, people often have to adapt to the challenging circumstances by relying on alternative methods, such as bringing in fodder or feed for the animals. This practice can affect local agriculture, economics, and trade, as it is essential for the continued survival of domesticated animals that contribute to the livelihood of the people.
Thus, by including this information about the dry climate, the author paints a more vivid picture of the difficulties faced by the people in this region, adding depth and context to the explanation of how the environment shapes their daily lives and practices.