Theories as to how bees reproduced themselves abounded in olden times and many of the most ridiculous were believed until the 1700s and beyond but some were more sceptical of these extreme theories as is demonstrated by this Essex pastor in 1657. His better understanding of bee reproduction is shown in his very interesting book entitled:
A Theatre of Political Flying Insects, wherein especially the Nature, Worth, Wonder of the manner of Right Ordering of the Bee is discovered and described, by Samuel Purchas, MA pastor of Sutton in Essex . London 1657.
“It hath been an ancient tradition that Bees have a twofold production; by generation and
putrifaction… …..I am somewhat dubious because it (the latter) was never authentically proved to bee performed by any. And they tell us that the best sort is procreated of a corrupted Lion. And therefore say it is no wonder, that being so small creatures, they fear not any, nay prevail over the greatest with a lion like courage assaulting them. Some say they are bred of bulls, cows, calves;…..but more absurd is the opinion of others, that if the ashes of Bees are bedewed with sweet wine, and exposed to the sun in a warm place, there are there will be a present resurrection of the former burnt Bees.”
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Thanks for this very interesting note about Purchas & his “A theatre of politicall flying-insects ” (our 1657 ed. at the Royal Geographical Society of South Australia uses 2 Ls). Very hard to find anything about him, & I’d like to list his book in my blog about our collection.