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Avian Illuminations

A Cultural History of Birds
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( 19 ratings, 6 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Avian Illuminations by Boria Sax explores the deep-seated relationship between humans and birds throughout history. The book examines various cultures and epochs, illustrating how birds have been central to mythologies, art, and science. Sax dives into the symbolic and real impact these creatures have had on human civilisation, creating a rich tapestry of history and nature.
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Format: Hardback
$5799
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might be intrigued by this book if you enjoy exploring the fascinating relationship between birds and human culture throughout history. Its insights into how birds have been perceived as symbols in various societies may captivate anyone interested in the intersections of nature, mythology, and history.

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Avian Illuminations

A superbly illustrated overview of our long relationship with our feathered friends.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Avian Illuminations examines the many roles birds have played in human society, from food, messengers, deities, and pets, to omens, muses, timekeepers, custodians, hunting companions, decorative motifs and, most importantly, embodiments of our aspirations.

It narrates the history of our relationships with a host of birds including crows, owls, parrots, falcons, eagles, nightingales, hummingbirds, and many more. Along the way, the book describes how birds' nesting has symbolised human romance, and how their flight has inspired inventors throughout history.

The book concludes by showing that the interconnections between birds and humans are so manifold that a world without birds would effectively mean an end to human culture itself. Beautifully illustrated, this is a superb overview of our long and rich association with our feathered friends.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Avian Illuminations by Boria Sax has been warmly received, with reviewers praising its intricate examination of the cultural ties between humans and birds. The book is celebrated for its rich exploration of history, philosophy, religion, and art, and is noted for its ability to enlighten and inspire during challenging times. Authors and scholars commend Sax for his thoughtful portrayal of birds' symbolic roles and influences across human history, considering it both a comprehensive cultural analysis and a delightful read for those intrigued by the avian world.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781789144321

Publisher: Reaktion Books

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 11 October 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Reaktion Books

Illustration: 207 illustrations, 129 in colour

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 416

About the Author

Boria Sax teaches at Sing Sing prison and online in the graduate literature programme at Mercy University. He has published many books, which have won awards and been translated into numerous languages. His most recent is Avian Illuminations: A Cultural History of Birds (Reaktion, 2021).

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