The Natural History of Pliny, Volume 3 (of 6)

This volume brings to life the third part of Pliny the Elder’s monumental Natural History, focusing on the astonishing world of insects and related creatures. The translator and scholars guide the listener through observations on bees, from their mysterious hive organization to the varied flavors of honey, while also revealing ancient ideas about silk‑worms, spiders, and even the tiny beetles that glow in the night. Interwoven with lively anecdotes from classical sources, the narrative captures both the wonder and the curiosity of early naturalists.

Accompanying the text are copious notes and detailed illustrations that translate the original Latin into clear, modern English, making the dense material accessible to today’s ear. Listeners will appreciate the thorough catalog of creatures—wasps, hornets, grasshoppers, and the curious insects that thrive in fire or snow—paired with explanations of anatomy, behavior, and the folklore surrounding them. Whether you’re a lover of science history or simply fascinated by the smallest beings on Earth, this recording offers an engaging glimpse into a bygone era of discovery.