Was Beethoven a Birdwatcher? A Bird's Eye History of the World

Did the Cetti’s Warbler inspire the opening notes of the last movement of Beethoven’s Second Symphony? Is the emu nature’s most devoted dad? Find out the answers to these ornithological conundrums and others this engaging book that delves into literature, science, religion, fine art and popular culture to reveal how a bird can be far more than the sum of its feathered, winged and webbed parts. Worshipped as gods and damned as agents of the Devil in equal measure, birds have also fostered scientific breakthroughs and even helped provoke a war. This entertaining guide is full of fascinating insights into the humble bird’s surprisingly large role in history and culture.