Figs: A Global History

Edible

by David Sutton

Lusciously sweet and with a complex texture, figs are both a nutritious culinary delicacy and an important symbol in religion and culture. Associated with Christmas since the time of Charles Dickens―not to mention Dionysus or the Garden of Eden―the fig is steeped in history. In this account of the festive fruit, David C. Sutton places the fig in its historical context, examining its peculiar origins and the importance it has garnered in so many countries.
           
Sutton begins by describing the fig’s strange biology―botanically, it is not a fruit, but rather a cluster of ingrowing flowers―then considers its Arabian origins, including the possibility that the earliest seeds were transported from Yemen to Mesopotamia in the dung of donkeys. Exploring the history of the fruit in fascinating detail, Sutton postulates that the “forbidden fruit” eaten by Adam and Eve was not an apple, but a fig; and he discusses the role figs played for the Crusaders and guides readers toward the wonderful fig festivals held today. Chock full of tasty recipes, intriguing facts, and bizarre stories, Figs is a toothsome book of delights. 

Genres: Nonfiction, Food, Environment, Food and Drink, History

128 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Nefertari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Odd and yet thoroughly enjoyable - I really want some fresh figs now. This book has made me realize that I've only ever eaten dried ones!

[Sesana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Focuses much more closely on the history of fig eating and cultivation, which works just fine for me.

[TheManSG · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good addition to the series. Starts from a single place and then expand it around the world while weaving local cultures/myths and also how figs are produced in the current global supply chain.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable history of the fig. Recommended, and I'm looking forward to reading other books in this "edible" series.