Homer, Steinbeck, and Vampire Bats: A Biological View of Literary Classics
What could Homer, Steinbeck, and vampire bats have in common?
Between Myths and Bats: Darwinian Readings in Monserrate
In the form of a walking conversation, with thematic stops along Monserrate, literature, science, and landscape come together in an engaging dialogue. The bridge to nature is built through bats—not only the vampires of popular imagination.
From myth to real biology, misconceptions are challenged, fascinating behaviors are revealed, and the essential ecological role of these animals is highlighted, alongside other examples from the natural world. A “Darwinian” reading of some of the great literary classics is proposed, exploring how evolutionary biology helps us understand characters, desires, and universal conflicts such as cooperation and competition, love and jealousy, social status, and risk-taking.
The experience concludes with a final Q&A moment, accompanied by a warm cup of tea, inviting participants to share and reflect in an informal setting.
A meeting point between books, evolution, and biodiversity—where literature, evolution, and conservation intersect in a relaxed, conversational, and stimulating experience for the curious.
More information
- Location: Park of Monserrate
- Date: May 9, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM
- Duration: 2h30
- Target audience: Young people and adults, ages 14 and up
- Meeting point: Ticket Office
- Accessibility: Steep terrain and steps
- Additional information: Comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing for Sintra are recommended