Aurora U. biologist to explore 'Animal Tales: Storytelling Animals in the Americas'
Aurora University biologist and veterinarian Jane Davis will discuss "Animal Tales: Storytelling Animals in the Americas" at noon Thursday, Sept. 16, at the Schingoethe Center museum, 1315 Prairie St. in Aurora.
The public is invited. Admission and parking are free. The program is part of the center's Faculty Galley Talk series.
Davis, AU professor of biology and chair of the human animal studies department, curated an exhibit from the center's permanent collection to help viewers notice animal tales that enrich the world.
According to Davis, "Throughout time and across cultures, humans and animals have interacted and observed each other. As humans, we have framed many of our own stories by observing traits we share with animals, and attributing our own strengths and foibles to them as well.
"Many of our own legends couch their meaning in an animal tale such as 'The Tortoise and the Hare.' Each of us can recall a favorite children's book that's lesson was imparted by an animal, like 'Charlotte's Web'."
"So much of our wisdom has been passed down through stories and songs, long before written language existed. We have developed a 'code' that helps us express big ideas with just an animal image," Davis said.
Davis holds veterinary medicine, master's and bachelor's degrees from the University of Illinois.
Call (630) 844-7843 for more information.