Whale [Paperback]

One hundred years ago, a beached whale would have been greeted by a mob wielding flensing knives; today, people bring harnesses and boats to help it return to the sea. The whale is one of the most awe-inspiring and intelligent animals in nature, sharing a complex relationship with humans that has radically evolved over the centuries. Joe Roman offers inWhalea fascinating and in-depth look at the cultural and natural history of these majestic aquatic mammals.

From the Biblical prophet Jonah to Moby-Dick to recent discoveries of cetacean songs and culture, Roman examines the whale's role in history, art, literature, commerce, and science.Whalefeatures vibrant illustrations, ranging from Stone Age carvings to full-color underwater photographs, which vividly bring to life the rich symbolic meanings surrounding the whale. Roman also examines the ecological and evolutionary history of the whale as well as contemporary issues of conservation.Whaleis an engaging volume that will appeal to all those interested in the important role that these kings of the ocean have played in human culture.

Joe Romanis a marine biologist who has written widely in the field of biology and cetacean studies. He lives in Massachusetts.

1.  First Surfacing

2.  The Invention of Whaling

3.  The Royal Fish

4.  Raising Whales

5.  A Diving Mammal

6.  Oil and Bone

7.  Floating Factories

8.  Exhaustion and Failure

9.  Save the Whales

10.  Eating the Whale

11.  Flukes

 

Timeline

Appendix: The Greenland Whale Fishery

References

Bibliography

Associations

Websites

Acknowledgements

Photo Acknowledgements

Index