Paper short abstract:

This paper demonstrates how trans-disciplinary close readings and untraditional archive studies can uncover myriads of insect species in historical documents. This enables us to study profound transformations in the social, cultural and political relations between humans and insects.

Paper long abstract:

Although only a relative few of the world´s myriads of insect species have made their direct mark upon traditional historical source materials, like paper mites in archives, moths in textiles and woodworms in cultural heritage objects, a multitude of insects can be indirectly traced in historical documents and other historical relics. Approached with trans-disciplinary knowledge and curiosity, sources from different branches and levels of state administration, as well as from civic associations, can be surprisingly rich. They enable us to examine the complex and intimate co-existence between humans and insects, and how these have transformed over time. The paper will be based on selected empirical material from my previous historical studies of the history of epidemics (Eng; 'People, Power and Pestilence', ' Bugs and Borders'), of pesticides in gardening (Eng; 'Petite Paradises', 'Syntheticising Scandinavia') as well as from ongoing studies of the Norwegian State Entomologist division. In these studies I combine the disciplines of social and cultural history, medicine, biology, botany, as well as practical experience as a beekeeper and from engagement in cultural heritage conservation and restoration. The objective of the presentation is to demonstrate the diversity of historical 'close relations' between insects and humans as well as the knowledge and values involved and present methods and sources that may inspire other researchers to approach this field of research. The study is part of the international project 'Deadly Dreams - The Cultural History of Poison, 1850-2020', led from University of Agder, Norway.