Vol 25, no 3, October - The Linnean Society of London

10
THE LINNEAN 2009 VOLUME 25(3)
literary matters associated with the banana plant. The English translation by itself
makes for good reading. Especially the later handwritten notes by Linnaeus in his
personal copy, are enlightening about his progressing knowledge and insights into the
systematic position, reproductive biology, and traditional knowledge of Musa, including
the reference to Syrian and Egyptian Christians who called the banana the pome of
Paradise, because its phallic shape must have aroused Eve to unbridled lust by its
appearance. Stephen Freer aptly comments in a footnote “Again, a remark highly
revealing of Linneaus’ fixation with sex”. As Müller-Wille convincingly demonstrates,
Musa Cliffortiana foreshadows Linnaeus’ later masterpieces such as Classes
Plantarum, Fundamenta Botanica, Species Plantarum and the later editions of Systema
Naturae and can be seen as a key to understanding Linnaeus’ scientific agenda. I
found the introduction on Linnaeus’ early career, and the links between botany,
patronage and global trade also very insightful and erudite. The translator and the
introductory author have done us a great service by unlocking this treasure box of
Linnaeus’ heritage for a wide audience. No Fellow of the Linnean Society or Member
of the International Association of Plant Taxonomists (who made this publication
possible and enjoy a discount price of 64 EUR) should miss reading it.
PIETER BAAS FLS
LEIDEN
Charles Darwin, Live at the Linnean!
A Lecture and Performance by
Richard Milner FLS
for the launch of his book
“Darwin’s Universe”
followed by a wine reception
10th November 2009, 6.00pm
To register please e-mail events@linnean.org
Join anthropologist and historian Richard Milner for a multimedia
roundup of his favourite stories in the history of science, taken from
his new authoritative and entertaining book Darwin’s Universe:
Evolution from A to Z, published by University of Califormia Press.
Written and performed by The New York Times’ favourite “singing
Darwinian scholar”, Milner’s entertaining and scientifically rich
lyrics span musical styles from Gilbert and Sullivan to Tom Leher
and the blues.
Copies of the book will be available for signing after the lecture.