Charles Darwin: His Life Told in an Autobiographical Chapter

This unique and intimate biography, compiled by Darwins son, Francis Darwin, offers a personal look at the life and work of the great naturalist.

The book is structured around an "Autobiographical Chapter"--a highly personal memoir written by Charles Darwin for his family in 1876 and never intended for public view. This candid account provides an unparalleled view of his childhood, education, motivations, and the mental processes that led to his world-changing theories.

Francis Darwin then supplements this memoir with a selected series of his fathers letters. These letters span his entire career, revealing the development of his ideas and his interactions with the scientific community. They trace his life from the voyage of the Beagle through the decades of quiet observation and experimentation at Down House, culminating in the publication of On the Origin of Species and the ensuing reception of his work.

Charles Darwin: His Life Told in an Autobiographical Chapter, and in a Selected Series of his Published Letters is an essential resource for understanding Darwin the man, a powerful self-portrait edited by the person who knew him best.