Hadal:  On Depth, Bioluminescence + Demonological Volumetrics

Cecilio M. Cooper, PhD • Folger Shakespeare Library Long-Term Fellow

November 8th @ 12:15pm • Talk • Downey 113

November 9th @ 12pm • Workshop • Downey 113

Lunch will be provided 

When bioluminescence manifests above or along terrestrial surfaces, it evokes an ethereal quality.  Fairy-like fireflies are among the most conspicuous forms of insect bioluminescence existing topside.  Mycological glow lining forest floors often signal magical properties in speculative art and media.  Creatures that emit their own chemically generated splendor from within also populate oceanic and subterranean depths, which are obscured planetary realms long associated with chthonic underworlds.  Bioluminescence causes squids, fish, fungi, insects, bacteria, and worms to organically radiate in dim conditions beyond the Sun's rays. Their colorful flashes and glimmers function as camouflage, thus allowing them to evade predators and lure prey. Sensitive infrared night vision cameras seem best equipped to image these terraqueous phenomena. Two of the main substances fueling bioluminescence, Luciferin and Luciferase, share etymological roots with Lucifer (Morning-Star), the radiant fallen angel and ruler of hell below chronicled in Abrahamic traditions. Coincidentally, certain clinical and industrial applications of bioluminescent technology have attracted public suspicion because they are thought to be readily weaponizable for malevolent purposes. Solar power has long been cosmologically associated with holiness, so bioluminescence's diabolical tenor likewise stems from its cold perversion of photosynthesis such that it can illumine with darkness as its primary stimulant rather than daylight.  Given this context, my talk considers how demonological perspectives inflect understandings of bioluminescence as a visual and scientific marvel.

Social, Cultural, and Crtical Theory Certificate

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