Life and Letters of Thomas Henry Huxley — Volume 2   By: Thomas Henry Huxley (1825-1895)

The second volume of "Life and Letters of Thomas Henry Huxley" by Thomas Henry Huxley is a remarkable continuation of the comprehensive biography of one of the greatest scientific thinkers of the 19th century. As an eminent biologist, educator, and advocate of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, Huxley's contributions to the scientific community are truly unparalleled, and this book delves deeper into his life and achievements.

The volume begins with Huxley's struggles to balance his professional and personal life, painting a vivid picture of a man driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific truth. Huxley's dedication and perseverance are inspiring, as he constantly challenges societal norms and confronts opposition to his ideas with unwavering conviction.

One of the most captivating aspects of this book is its detailed exploration of Huxley's intellectual endeavors. The reader gains insight into his groundbreaking theories, his interactions with other prominent scientists of the time, and his efforts to disseminate scientific knowledge to the wider public. Huxley's letters, included in this volume, serve as a window into his mind, revealing his thought processes, motives, and the personal struggles he faced in his quest for scientific advancement.

Moreover, the book does not shy away from highlighting Huxley's roles as a tireless educator and progressive thinker. His commitment to improving scientific education and promoting rational thought is evident throughout his letters and accounts of his public engagements. Through lively descriptions of his lectures and debates, the book showcases Huxley's influential impact on academia and society alike.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Huxley's personal life and relationships are equally captivating. The author provides an intimate understanding of Huxley's character, his deep love for his family, and the profound grief he experienced with the loss of loved ones. These personal anecdotes add a layer of humanity to Huxley's otherwise larger-than-life persona.

While the book effectively portrays Huxley's achievements and private life, it occasionally falls short in contextualizing his work within the wider scientific and social milieu of the time. More background information on the intellectual climate of the 19th century, as well as the societal challenges faced by Huxley and his contemporaries, would have enhanced the reader's understanding of his significance as a scientist and public figure.

Overall, the second volume of "Life and Letters of Thomas Henry Huxley" is a captivating biography that sheds light on the life and contributions of an extraordinary individual. It showcases Huxley's indomitable spirit, his pursuit of knowledge, and his influential role as an educator and advocate for evolutionary theory. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science and the life of one of its greatest minds.

First Page:

[With the year 1870 comes another turning point in Huxley's career. From his return to England in 1850 till 1854 he had endured four years of hard struggle, of hope deferred; his reputation as a zoologist had been established before his arrival, and was more than confirmed by his personal energy and power. When at length settled in the professorship at Jermyn Street, he was so far from thinking himself more than a beginner who had learned to work in one corner of the field of knowledge, still needing deep research into all kindred subjects in order to know the true bearings of his own little portion, that he treated the next six years simply as years of further apprenticeship... Continue reading book >>