by Crave Staff
An epic tale, the transformation of Temüjin – a poor, illiterate child – into Genghis Khan – one of history’s greatest conquers – is filled with brutality, cunning and intrigue. Born in 1162 AD, Genghis Khan’s early hardships included the untimely death of his father, the controversial execution of his half-brother, his imprisonment and torture at the hands of a warring tribe, the kidnapping of his young wife, Borte, and the violent and deadly rivalry between him and his sworn blood brother, Jamuka. These challenges shaped him into a brutal, yet visionary leader.
In 1206 AD he successfully united the Mongol clans and was given the title of Genghis Khan – Fierce or Oceanic Ruler. He solidified this unification by establishing a code of law or Yasa which brought order to the Mongolian steppes, and prepared his people to wage war with civilizations beyond Mongolian borders.
Balancing the rule of law with the superior power of his military, Genghis Khan was able to take a part of northern China in 1215 AD. Then, he took his armies to the west and conquered a part of the Middle East in 1220 AD. He died in 1227 AD, after leaving each of his four sons a part of his empire and selecting his son Ogodei as Khan of the Mongols. Genghis Khan’s grandson, Kublai Khan, initiated 89 years of Mongol rule over China under the support of the Yuan dynasty. Genghis Khan’s burial site remains one of history’s great mysteries.
The world tour of Genghis Khan: The Exhibition captures the essence of Genghis Khan’s empire, his military prowess, cultural influence, mysterious burial and lasting legacy on modern-day culture. The exhibition, the largest collection of 13th century Mongolian artifacts ever gathered in a single showing, includes gold jewelry, weaponry, tomb treasures, silk robes, religious relics, and porcelain vases. Video screens, handicraft and weaponry activity stations, a life size ger (traditional Mongolian home) and role-playing kiosks create a highly interactive, educational and historical experience that is fun for the whole family.
Tickets: Genghis Khan: The Exhibition runs through Sept. 30, 2011 at the Irving Arts Center. Exhibit hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1-8 p.m. Admission is timed and the last entry time is at 6:30 p.m. daily. Tickets are $8 for children, groups and seniors (ages 55 years and above); and $12 for adults. Children under 2 years old are free. Military families are free. To purchase tickets contact the box office at (972) 252-2787 or visit www.KhanIrving.com.
