Tartare, Tartaria
Tartary historically referred to a vast region in Eurasia, although the exact boundaries and meaning of the term have evolved and varied over time.
According to the Alliterative Morte Arthure, Tartary joined Lucius the Roman in his war against Arthur.
Historical References
The term “Tartary” was originally used by Europeans to describe a broad and somewhat undefined territory that extended across parts of Central Asia, Siberia, and Eastern Europe. It was often used in the Middle Ages and the early modern period to describe regions inhabited by Turkic and Mongol-speaking peoples.
Variety of Meanings
The exact extent and definition of Tartary varied among different historical periods and authors. It could include areas like the Mongol Empire, parts of present-day Russia and China, and various Central Asian regions.
Changing Terminology
Over time, as geographical knowledge improved and the regions became better understood, the use of the term “Tartary” declined. The development of modern nation-states and more precise geographic boundaries led to the abandonment of this term in favor of more accurate names for specific regions.
Sources
Alliterative Morte Arthure | c. 1400
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470