Description
Book SynopsisThis concluding volume of Janet Browne''s biography covers the transformation in Darwin''s life after the first unexpected announcement of the theory of evolution by natural selection and the publication of On the Origin of Species in 1859. Always a private man, Darwin found himself a controversial figure, reviewed and discussed in circles that stretched far beyond the boundaries of Victorian science.
Janet Browne here examines the wider publishing world of Victorian England and the different audiences that responded to the ideas of one of the leading thinkers of the nineteenth century and considers the Darwinian revolution from Darwin''s point of view.
Trade ReviewOne of the most distinguished of all modern biographies * Guardian *
A monumental and absorbing biography * Scotsman *
Her first book,
Voyaging, was hailed as a magisterial introduction to Darwin's life, a work that vividly evoked period, character and ideas. The only question was: could she follow it up? It has taken seven years to get an answer: an emphatic yes -- Robin McKie * Observer *
Browne's first volume was warmly received when it appeared seven years ago, and the second triumphantly fulfils its promise...[a] remarkable book -- James Secord * Daily Telegraph *
A marvellous book... This second part of the life stands on its own. Soothing, unhurried and absorbing -- Jane Ridley * Spectator *
