The octopus : $b or, The "devil-fish" of fiction and of fact

"The Octopus; or, The 'Devil-Fish' of Fiction and of Fact" by Henry Lee is a non-fiction exploration of the octopus, blending scientific observation with cultural perceptions. Lee, a naturalist, begins by sharing his real-world experiences with octopuses at the Brighton Aquarium, including captivating stories of public interest and unfortunate events. He then sets the stage for a detailed comparison of scientific facts with fictional depictions, especially those popularized by Victor Hugo, as he aims to bridge the gap between these contrasting viewpoints while analyzing the animal's biology, behavior, and the myths that surround it.