The Age of Wonder of by Richard Holmes introduced me to historical figures that played a key part of the second (the romantic) scientific revolution. The 3 main scientists it focused on feel close to me now: Joseph Banks, Humphry Davy, & William Herschel. It was smart of the author to chronicle their lives, their curiosities, and their triumphs. Their failure, too. They pioneered astronomy, chemistry, botany, & exploration. I loved learning about the Royal Society, which served as a focal point of scientific advancement during this period of the late 18th century.
In addition to conveying the lives and work of these foundational scientists, the book shows how they set the stage for the next generation of scientists whose achievements reverberated across generations, notably: Michael Faraday and Charles Darwin. I especially liked the story of Herschel's son John, who was a child during most of the book, learned from his father's passion for science and self-driven hard work ethic, grew up and eventually became president of the Royal Society himself.
When I next learn more about those who led the first scientific revolution (including Newton, Leibniz, and others), I'll have more context to enjoy Neil Stephenson's historical fiction trilogy "The Baroque Cycle" :)
In addition to conveying the lives and work of these foundational scientists, the book shows how they set the stage for the next generation of scientists whose achievements reverberated across generations, notably: Michael Faraday and Charles Darwin. I especially liked the story of Herschel's son John, who was a child during most of the book, learned from his father's passion for science and self-driven hard work ethic, grew up and eventually became president of the Royal Society himself.
When I next learn more about those who led the first scientific revolution (including Newton, Leibniz, and others), I'll have more context to enjoy Neil Stephenson's historical fiction trilogy "The Baroque Cycle" :)