Charles and Emma
The Darwins' Leap of Faith
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Charles Darwin and his wife, Emma, were deeply in love and very supportive of each other, but their opinions often clashed. Emma was extremely religious, and Charles questioned God's very existence.
Imprint:
New York - Henry Holt and Co
Pages:
268
Edition:
1st ed
ISBN:
0805087214, 9780805087215
Language:
English
Awards & Distinctions:
A Junior Library Guild selection
Notes:
Includes bibliographical references (p. 260-262) and index
Statement of responsibility:
Deborah Heiligman
Characteristics:
268 p., [8] p. of plates :,ill. ;,24 cm.
Author (Original Script):
Heiligman, Deborah
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Add a CommentVery well crafted biography of the loving and supportive relationship between two people. The Wedgwood family's influence on Darwin and the way he worked in his home has always been left out or glossed over in most biographies I've read so it is a pleasure to read one that focuses on this critical, personal aspect of his life. Clearly there had to be debate or even conflict between Emma's devout faith and Charles' lack of faith. This interaction was detailed in letters between the couple and in materials from close friends and family. The result was portrayed as a strong marriage with respect and commitment that supported Darwin's work. Emma actively sheltered him from external disturbances upsetting his health & his ability to work. She contributed to his work by editing and commenting on content. Clearly she both kept her faith and understood the implications of his work if she could edit and make intelligent suggestions. This is the first biography that made Emma more that a shadow behind Darwin.