Maria Sibylla Merian was a 17th century middle class woman who studied bugs
(and stuff) at a time when butterflies were considered demonic creatures
and beetles were believed to spontaneously appear from the ground. Her
fascination with bugs began at an early age (she had her very own silkworm
farm at age 13!) and would be the subject of her painting, writing, and
lifelong studies.
If a proper young lady being interested in hell bugs doesn't catch your
attention, stay for the dirt on her stint in a 17th century hippie commune
and her unchaperoned (GASP) transatlantic travels!
Maria Sibylla Merian was a 17th century middle class woman who studied bugs (and stuff) at a time when butterflies were considered demonic creatures and beetles were believed to spontaneously appear from the ground. Her fascination with bugs began at an early age (she had her very own silkworm farm at age 13!) and would be the subject of her painting, writing, and lifelong studies.
If a proper young lady being interested in hell bugs doesn't catch your attention, stay for the dirt on her stint in a 17th century hippie commune and her unchaperoned (GASP) transatlantic travels!
Joining us on this episode are Cari and Caitlin of the Bugs and Stuff podcast!