The Phlegræan Fields

Abstract

THE fired rocks and hills of volcanic origin stand in so striking a contrast to those of aqueous origin, that they have exercised a very powerful influence on the thoughts of man in all ages. Frequently associated with such formations are the phenomena which we are accustomed to refer to as volćanic—“burning mountains,” boiling springs, gaseous exhalations, terrifying noises—all shrouded with a mystery which demands explanation. Even in a locality in which the volcanic fires have been extinguished or have long remained quiescent, the peculiar configuration of the ground often keeps alive the tradition of former outbursts of subterranean fire, and the tradition usually supplies the explanation of the configuration. The ancient Romans, long before the awful catastrophe of A.D. 79, seem to have been quite aware that Vesuvius had not always been in a condition to support the rich cultivation which covered its slopes in their day. It is only in rare cases that the inquirer is rewarded by finding that the history of a heap of burnt soil is preserved; more often he will hear vague stories of the direful effects of prehistoric struggles of Cyclops or other mythological monsters.