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What does cookery mean? It means the knowledge of Medea…

“What does cookery mean? It means the knowledge of Medea and of Circe, and of Calypso, and Sheba. It means knowledge of all herbs, and fruits, and balms and spices... It means the economy of your great-grandmother and the science of modern chemistry, and French art, and Arabian hospitality. It…” quote by John Ruskin
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“What does cookery mean? It means the knowledge of Medea and of Circe, and of Calypso, and Sheba. It means knowledge of all herbs, and fruits, and balms and spices... It means the economy of your great-grandmother and the science of modern chemistry, and French art, and Arabian hospitality. It means, in fine, that you are to see imperatively that everyone has something nice to eat.”

John Ruskin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Cookery is presented as a blend of ancient mythic knowledge, practical herbal and culinary arts, and modern science, emphasizing the cultural and moral duty to provide good food for all.

In simple terms: Cooking combines tradition, science, and hospitality to feed people well.

Key Takeaway

Blend tradition, science, and hospitality.

Themes

culture food hospitality science tradition

Mood

reflective inspirational thoughtful

Type

educational philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • family meals
  • restaurant kitchens
  • community events
  • educational cooking classes

Key Concepts

mythology culinary arts social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we honor tradition while embracing sustainable practices?
  • What role does food play in cultural identity?
A Different Perspective

May overlook economic and environmental constraints of food production.

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