Genre:

Novel, Serial

Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Illustrators:

H Meyer

Subjects:

Meteorology, Physical Geography, Exploration, Entomology, Anatomy, Geology, Animal Behaviour, Collecting, Hunting, Lecturing, Taxonomy

People mentioned:

Henry Smeathman , David Livingstone , Henry M Stanley

    Includes a detailed description of Cousin Benedict's exploration of a giant evacuated ant-hill where Benedict and his fellow travellers sought refuge after a severe African tempest. Benedict reports his discovery of the 'termites' "store-house"' (which was a receptacle for 'a considerable quantity of gum and vegetable juices') and attempts to interest his friends in the importance of the fact that the hills are deserted. (443) Later Benedict holds forth on the subject of termites, describing their classification, anatomy and habits, and emphasising the fierce ''sirafoos'' species of termite which frighten even the lion, and the immense fecundity of the female termite. The illustrations show the dark cavern where 'Cousin Benedict's curiosity was awakened', and the naturalist crouched on the floor of the cavern 'fairly mounted on a favourite hobby'—lecturing on entomology. (444)

Reprinted:

Verne 1879