Department or Program

Environmental Studies

Abstract

This thesis first provides an overview of seven contemporary honeybee writers, and then recounts my conversations with Maine beekeepers and bee researchers. The first three books explore themes of practical hands-on experience in beekeeping, and present opposing views regarding recent honeybee die-offs. These books also touch upon bee sociality, their relationship with plants, and the importance of bees’ pollination for human nutrition. The subsequent texts are sociopolitical writings in which the authors discuss their views on racial injustice, gendered division of labor, and political structures within groups – all in relation to their personal experiences with bees. In the second section, I summarize my discussions with bee-people in Maine regarding their own experiences with honeybees. The range of topics includes how they are dealing with Colony Collapse Disorder, favorite bee-stories, and the meaning of honeybees in their lives.

Level of Access

Restricted: Campus/Bates Community Only Access

First Advisor

Jane Costlow

Date of Graduation

5-2019

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Number of Pages

94

Components of Thesis

1 pdf file

Community Engagement

1

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