マリ・パップ＝カルパンティエの「昆虫記」を巡る考察

その他

This paper, analyzing "Zoologie des ecoles, des salles d'asile et des families", one of
the most important textbooks written by Marie Pape-Carpantier, which focuses on its
entomological tales. For, as compared to other animals, this preeminent female
educator seems to stick to explaining insects under some sort of exceptional
circumstances.
In France, the study of insects was less valued than vertebrate animals, even in a
period of enlightenment. For example, Geroges Louis Buffon, one of the most famous
naturalists, once said: "A fly shouldn't take more space in your mind than it takes in
nature". The study makes progress anyway after Rene-Antoine Ferchault de Reaumur
called "Founder of entomology in France". However, even in the late 19'h century, the
general public always coldly disdains these creatures with some fearfulness. What
does the fact represent? On the basis of its cultural meanings, this paper will disclose
reasons of Pape-Carpantier's serious considerations for insects and their exciting
stories scientifically described, though she was not a scientist nor entomologist. The
key words could be, 1的ons de choses, taxonomy and various forms of life.
Incidentally, Pape-Carpantier is contemporary with Jean-Henri Fabre, one of the
most famous French naturalists in Japan, as author of'、Souvenirs Entomologiques". It
is also interesting to notice that his style might be influenced more or less by PapeCarpantier.