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Animal Series
Scorpion
No creature has quite the sting in our mythology and folklore as the scorpion. From the dawn of human civilization they have been a dangerous figure in our imaginations—poisonous, precise, and deadly quiet—but as Louise M. Pryke shows in this book, their bad reputation has overshadowed many exceptional qualities. Scurrying across hundreds of millions of years and across every continent except Antarctica, this book gives the scorpion its due as one of nature’s longest lasting survivors.
Indeed scorpions are older than dinosaurs. An ancient arthropod, their form—notable for its pair of pincers and an elegant tail that holds a menacing stinger high in the air in a permanent striking position—hasn’t changed since prehistoric times, though today there are some 1700 different species. Throughout our existence scorpions have served as a powerful cultural and religious symbol—sometimes dangerous, sometimes protecting—from the Egyptian goddess Serket to Zodiac astrology to folk medicine. A fascinating tour that takes us from the art of North Africa to the American Civil War to the markets of Beijing, Scorpion is an homage to one of earth’s oldest residents.
Indeed scorpions are older than dinosaurs. An ancient arthropod, their form—notable for its pair of pincers and an elegant tail that holds a menacing stinger high in the air in a permanent striking position—hasn’t changed since prehistoric times, though today there are some 1700 different species. Throughout our existence scorpions have served as a powerful cultural and religious symbol—sometimes dangerous, sometimes protecting—from the Egyptian goddess Serket to Zodiac astrology to folk medicine. A fascinating tour that takes us from the art of North Africa to the American Civil War to the markets of Beijing, Scorpion is an homage to one of earth’s oldest residents.
208 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2016
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72 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
October 5, 2024
Pryke delves into the rich tapestry of mythology surrounding scorpions across different cultures. For instance, she discusses their representation in ancient Egyptian mythology, where the scorpion goddess Serket was revered as a protector against venomous creatures. This exploration reveals how scorpions have been imbued with dual meanings: they are both feared for their sting and celebrated for their protective qualities.
The author also highlights modern interpretations, such as the scorpion's association with resilience and transformation in contemporary art and literature. This duality serves to illustrate the broader human experience of grappling with fear and embracing change, making the scorpion a powerful metaphor for personal growth.
Pryke emphasizes the ecological role of scorpions within their habitats. She discusses how they contribute to pest control by preying on insects and other small creatures, thus maintaining ecological balance. This aspect of her analysis challenges the common perception of scorpions solely as dangerous predators, instead portraying them as vital components of their ecosystems.
By presenting scientific data alongside cultural narratives, Pryke effectively argues for a more nuanced understanding of scorpions. She encourages readers to recognize their importance in biodiversity and the potential consequences of habitat loss and climate change on these ancient creatures.
A recurring theme in Pryke's work is the misunderstanding surrounding scorpions. She delves into societal fears that often overshadow factual knowledge about these animals. For example, while many people associate scorpions with danger due to their venomous nature, Pryke points out that only a few species pose significant threats to humans. This analysis serves as a call to action for readers to confront their fears and misconceptions about wildlife. By fostering a sense of curiosity rather than fear, Pryke advocates for greater appreciation and conservation efforts towards misunderstood species like the scorpion.
In Scorpion, Louise M. Pryke offers a multifaceted exploration that transcends traditional boundaries between science and culture. Her analysis encourages readers to rethink their perceptions of these fascinating creatures while highlighting their ecological significance and cultural richness. By weaving together various threads—biological facts, cultural narratives, and visual elements—Pryke crafts a compelling narrative that invites deeper reflection on our relationship with nature. This book not only informs but also inspires a sense of wonder about the complexities of life on Earth, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of biology and culture.
The author also highlights modern interpretations, such as the scorpion's association with resilience and transformation in contemporary art and literature. This duality serves to illustrate the broader human experience of grappling with fear and embracing change, making the scorpion a powerful metaphor for personal growth.
Pryke emphasizes the ecological role of scorpions within their habitats. She discusses how they contribute to pest control by preying on insects and other small creatures, thus maintaining ecological balance. This aspect of her analysis challenges the common perception of scorpions solely as dangerous predators, instead portraying them as vital components of their ecosystems.
By presenting scientific data alongside cultural narratives, Pryke effectively argues for a more nuanced understanding of scorpions. She encourages readers to recognize their importance in biodiversity and the potential consequences of habitat loss and climate change on these ancient creatures.
A recurring theme in Pryke's work is the misunderstanding surrounding scorpions. She delves into societal fears that often overshadow factual knowledge about these animals. For example, while many people associate scorpions with danger due to their venomous nature, Pryke points out that only a few species pose significant threats to humans. This analysis serves as a call to action for readers to confront their fears and misconceptions about wildlife. By fostering a sense of curiosity rather than fear, Pryke advocates for greater appreciation and conservation efforts towards misunderstood species like the scorpion.
In Scorpion, Louise M. Pryke offers a multifaceted exploration that transcends traditional boundaries between science and culture. Her analysis encourages readers to rethink their perceptions of these fascinating creatures while highlighting their ecological significance and cultural richness. By weaving together various threads—biological facts, cultural narratives, and visual elements—Pryke crafts a compelling narrative that invites deeper reflection on our relationship with nature. This book not only informs but also inspires a sense of wonder about the complexities of life on Earth, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of biology and culture.
November 12, 2017
Really interesting overview of the biology and cultural 'baggage' of these creatures
April 25, 2022
A great basic overview of scorpion facts and occurrences in ancient and modern media. Only about half of the book is worth reading and the rest is fluff or repeated facts needed to fill the book.
November 30, 2016
The length of time it took me to read this is in no way indicative of any quality of the book itself. I've just had a ton of distractions and priorities lately. ANYWAY. As a mythology junkie from way back, and an animal fan even further, I loved this. And to find out that there is a whole SERIES out there, devoting entire books to the mythology surrounding a particular animal and it's relationship to us? HEAVEN! I've ordered a couple more and queued them up. Scorpion was a fascinating read. My favourite parts were the parts dealing with scorpion myth and art, but I found the section near the end, with their possible applications in medicine and ecology (preventing colony collapse disorder in bees? Tell me more!) to be especially interesting as well.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews