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ergot |
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ergotAny of a group of parasitic fungi (especially of the genus Claviceps), whose brown or black grainlike masses replace the kernels of rye or other cereals. C. purpurea attacks the rye plant. Ergot poisoning is caused by eating infected bread, resulting in burning pains, gangrene, and convulsions. The large grains of the fungus contain the poison ergotamine. |
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Instead, it's a killer fungus called ergot that affects the flowers of grasses or grains, and therefore the mead made from grains; ergot poisoning can cause hallucinations and fits of insanity, as well as stimulate sexual desire (this sexual licentiousness is touched on in the book). Eating certain types of food-borne molds, such as ergot growing on rye flour, can cause seizures. Napoli's spare title captures the suffocating atmosphere of medieval Germany ravaged by plague brought on by rat infestation and illness brought on by a "killer fungus" called ergot. |
ergot
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