Insect Life (Illustrated Edition) (Without CD)

Author: Jean-Henri Fabre (France)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: November 1, 2005
Features: The Insect World is a timeless masterpiece by the French entomologist and writer Jean-Henri Fabre, also regarded as an immortal world classic. It blends the author's lifelong research findings and personal insights, observing insects through the lens of human nature, transforming the insect world into a literary work that offers knowledge, entertainment, beauty, and thought. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, a groundbreaking book by a French entomologist was published. The full work comprises ten volumes and spans over two to three million words. It quickly became a bestseller, with its original French title translated directly as Souvenirs Entomologiques, but simply and colloquially referred to as The Insect World. The book received widespread acclaim upon its release. The renowned French dramatist Edmond Rostand praised the author, saying, "This great scholar thinks like a philosopher, observes like an artist, and feels and expresses like a poet." Roman Rolland admired, "His passion, patience, and meticulous observation are truly admirable. His book is an artistic masterpiece. I read his works years ago and found them deeply enjoyable." The British biologist Charles Darwin lauded him as "an unparalleled observer." Zhou Zuoren of China remarked, "Encountering the works of this 'scientific poet' evokes nostalgia, and I envy young people in other countries who have the opportunity to read such wonderful books. I hope someone in China will take up the task of translating and compiling them." Lu Xun had already mentioned The Insect World before the May Fourth Movement, presumably in its Japanese edition. At the time, French and international academia hailed the author as the "founder of animal psychology." In summary, this is a rare and invaluable book written based on detailed and authentic observations of insect behavior. The descriptions of insect habits, life, and other aspects are truthful and credible, and the author's writing is concise and clear. Thus, the book is called "an epic of insects," and the author is celebrated as "the Vergil of insects." The author in question is Jean-Henri Fabre (1823–1915). Born into a humble family, he worked diligently and pursued excellence throughout his life, achieving self-taught success and earning his baccalaureate, double bachelor's, and doctoral degrees over twelve years. However, this determination was not recognized by the authorities in French education and science, leading to his lifelong dream of becoming a university professor remaining unfulfilled. He was forced to settle for a secondary school teaching position, earning a modest salary to support his family of seven. Yet Fabre did not give up. Beyond diligently teaching, he used his free time to meticulously observe and study insects. His dedication was so intense that he often neglected sleep and food. His curiosity and love for insects were beyond ordinary comprehension. The little creatures he wrote about were vivid, lifelike, and full of spirit, making them seem utterly adorable—even the dung beetles, which most people dislike, became amusing to read about. This book is a monumental work, both a popular science book on entomology and a literary masterpiece depicting insects. Consequently, Fabre is celebrated as both a great naturalist and a great writer. For this reason, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in his later years, in 1910. The book was published intermittently between 1879 and 1907, with the final edition appearing between 1919 and 1925. Later, it was repeatedly published in Selected Works form, titled Insect Habits, Insect Life, and Insect Walks, reflecting its enduring popularity. My translation is based on the first two Selected Works. While the Selected Works may not be as comprehensive as the ten-volume Complete Works, they capture its essence. I encourage everyone to take the time to read this book suitable for all ages, and you will surely appreciate its beauty, simplicity, and charm. It will not only enrich your knowledge of insects but also allow you to experience the beauty of the author's prose-like language. At the same time, you will see through the text his perseverance, his tireless dedication, his pursuit of truth, and the profound spirit of a naturalist who refuses to give up until the truth is fully revealed.