A Cultural History of Plants

The book "A Cultural History of Plants" explores how plants have shaped human culture over the last 12,000 years, covering topics such as cultivation, trade, classification, and influence on luxury, wealth, health, well-being, art, and architecture. It is part of The Cultural Histories Series and is available in print and digital formats for libraries and institutions.

Format: Mixed media product
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A Cultural History of Plants, winner of the 2022 Society of Economic Botanys Daniel F. Austin Award, presents a comprehensive exploration of the profound influence of plants on human culture throughout history. Spanning the last 12,000 years, this definitive history delves into the cultivation, trade, classification, and alteration of plants, as well as the reciprocal impact these activities have had on our perceptions of luxury, wealth, health, well-being, art, and architecture.

The book is organized into six volumes, each with identical chapter titles across all volumes. This allows readers to choose to delve into specific periods of history by reading a single volume, or to follow a thematic thread across time by consulting the relevant chapters in each of the six. The themes covered in the book are:

Plants as Staple Foods: Examining the role of plants as primary sources of sustenance throughout different eras.

Plants as Luxury Foods: Exploring the cultural significance of plants as luxury items, both in terms of taste and symbolism.

Trade and Exploration: Tracing the exchange of plants between different regions and civilizations, and the impact this had on global trade and cultural interactions.

Plant Technology and Science: Discussing the advancements in plant science, agriculture, and horticulture throughout history.

Plants and Medicine: Exploring the medicinal properties of plants and their role in human healthcare.

Plants in Culture: Examining the cultural significance of plants in art, literature, religion, and society.

Plants as Natural Ornaments: Discussing the aesthetic and ornamental value of plants in various cultures and environments.

The Representation of Plants: Analyzing the ways in which plants have been depicted and symbolized in art, literature, and popular culture.

The six volumes of A Cultural History of Plants cover a wide range of historical periods, from antiquity (10,000 BCE to 500 CE) to the modern era (1920 to the present). Each volume begins with Notes on Contributors and an Introduction, providing valuable insights into the backgrounds and expertise of the authors. The book concludes with Notes, a Bibliography, and an Index, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and researchers.

The Cultural Histories Series, of which A Cultural History of Plants is a part, offers titles in both printed hardcover sets for libraries seeking a single subject or preferring a one-time purchase, as well as a fully searchable digital library accessible to institutions through annual subscriptions or perpetual access. This digital library provides convenient access to the wealth of information contained in the series, making it an essential tool for academic and research purposes.

In conclusion, A Cultural History of Plants is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the intricate relationship between plants and human culture. Through its rich narratives, insightful analysis, and extensive coverage, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of cultural history and sheds light on the profound impact of plants on our lives and societies throughout history.

Weight: 3886g
Dimension: 219 x 423 x 106 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474273596