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Paola Bertucci, "In the Land of Marvels: Science, Fabricated Realities, and Industrial Espionage in the Age of the Grand Tour" (Johns Hopkins UP, 2023)

New Books in Science, Technology, and Society

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The Silk Chronicles: An 18th Century Journey

This chapter explores the diary of a prominent 18th-century figure during his travels in Italy, focusing on his detailed observations of the silk industry. The discussion unveils a potential covert mission funded by the French state, blending scientific inquiry with industrial espionage. Through meticulous archival research, the speakers reveal the intricate relationship between personal curiosity, cultural exchange, and the historical complexities of travel in the Enlightenment era.

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