Courtney Barnett: Creature of Habit (Praying Mantis Science with Jessica Ware)

About this episode

Courtney Barnett and Jessica Ware discuss the science and symbolism of the praying mantis.

Australian songwriter Courtney Barnett joins entomologist Jessica Ware to explore the science and symbolism of the praying mantis. From ancient folklore to evolutionary behavior—including its infamous mating habits—they unpack what this strange, still creature is really doing… and why we can’t stop projecting meaning onto it.

People in this episode

Guests: Courtney Barnett, Jessica Ware

Topics covered

• praying mantis
• entomology
• symbolism
• evolutionary behavior
• mating habits
• folklore

Keywords

• praying mantis
• Courtney Barnett
• Jessica Ware
• entomology
• symbolism
• evolution
• mating habits
• folklore

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Talkhouse

Books & works: Creature of Habit

Places: Australia

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