Honey is now thought of mostly as a sweetener, but in its long history around the world, it has been treated as a food, tonic, medicine and preservative. It was also used in religious rituals as a sacred food from the gods. And its creators - bees - are vital to the pollination of wild plants as well as many domesticated crops. Lucy M. Long explores the fascinating history of honey, tracing its use and meanings through numerous cultures and demonstrating how this seemingly simple substance is connected to politics, religion, economics, popular culture and beliefs about the natural and supernatural world.

About the Author
Lucy M. Long is a folklorist, food studies scholar and Director of the non-profit Center for Food and Culture in Ohio.


Book Information
ISBN 9781780237336
Author Lucy M. Long
Format Hardback
Page Count 176
Imprint Reaktion Books
Publisher Reaktion Books