11 INTRODUCTION. 



world is occupied with theoretical and hypothetical 

 discussions on the subject of specific descent, remarks 

 from time to time may be permitted, and thought not 

 altogether irrelevant. 



Although amongst insects the higher Hymenoptera 

 perhaps elicit the greatest general interest, on account 

 of their extraordinary social economy and their quasi- 

 intelligence, the Hemiptera or Khynchota show remark- 

 able characters, and present many points for profitable 

 study. 



The present volumes are devoted to the study of the 

 group known as the Cicadae, which forms the second 

 division (Homoptera) of the Ehynchotous or amandi- 

 bulate insects, characterized by a sucking rostrum 

 instead of cutting jaws for the supply of food to the 

 sesophagus. Although some Cicada of the Tropics 

 attain a great size ; even to the expanse of seven 

 inches across the wings, the group, so far as mere 

 size goes, is but poorly represented in Great Britain, 

 the largest example of which barely reaches more than 

 an inch and a half. 



We have, however, numerous smaller species, beau- 

 tiful in colour, elegant in form, and singular in outline. 

 Some have an interest from a grotesqueness of appear- 

 ance and gait, which has earned for them the popular 

 names of Frog-hoppers and Cuckoo-spits. These insects 

 are often common on our trees, low shrubs, long grasses, 

 and sedges. Although they belong to the section of 

 insects commonly called Bugs, many of which are 

 possessed of disgusting odours, the Cicadae of Britain 

 in this do not offend; neither do they often do injury 

 to our crops ; and thus they almost rise to the character 

 given to them by many Greek poets, who called them 

 " the most innocent and merry of animals." 



I purpose to treat my subject under the following 

 heads : — 



Etymology and the ancient notices of the Cicada or 

 Tettix. 



Classical allusions and poetic myths relating to them. 



