Darwin and the Beagle

Darwin and the Beagle by Alan Moorehead is an illustrated popular history - a spectacular one. This book has an honored place among the history books of my earlier years that were very formative in my decision to become a historian. That said, Darwin and the Beagle chronicles Charles Darwin's voyage at the age of twenty-three in 1831 (before he was famous/infamous for Origin of the Species) on Robert FitzRoy's ship, the HMS Beagle, as a naturalist. The Beagle circumnavigated the world and the Charles Darwin's discoveries along the way were critical in developing the theories that he later developed in the Origin of the Species. The book chronologically follows the ship's voyage as well as all of Darwin's side expeditions into the interior of South America, The Galapagos Islands, and the Pacific Islands. Moorhead takes most of his information from Charles Darwin's personal writings including his "Narrative of the Surveying Voyages of the HMS 'Adventure' and 'Beagle' between 1826 and 1836" as well has his 'Life and Letters' compiled by a descendant. Not only does the text take extensively from these letters and writings but provides vivid illustrations, maps, and biological diagrams of many of the wonderful species he encountered (pichiciego which are small armadillos, ostriches, giant tortoises, the Argentinian oppossum , yargouaroundi, various monkeys, toco toucans, and an assortment of antediluvian animal fossils). Moorhead stays away from any real controversy and only briefly describes the content of the Origin of the Species and its reception - however, his subject is clearly Darwin's early voyage of exploration and how scientifically important many of his discoveries were (concerning such topics as army ants and the animals of the Galapagos). Of course, mixed in with science is adventure! Tempests and earthquakes etc. The book conveys the powerful message of the wonder of exploration, discovery, and curiosity. This is a WONDERFUL book on a fascinating period of history for a young as well as older audience. Darwin and the Beagle is simply a must find/buy!

Alan Moorehead does wonders with the story of Charles Darwin aboard the HMS Beagle. This is a very readable version of the voyage for the non-biologist and the non-sailor. Other accounts of the story (including Darwin's) can be tedious to the casual reader, but this reads like an adventure novel. The book uses many direct quotes and MANY illustrations made during and immediately after the voyage. This text with these illustrations brought together makes a wonderful presentation of one of the most important voyages in history.

A fine introduction into the insights which caused Darwin to change his mind about religion and brought him into conflict with Capt. FitzRoy who was a dyed in the wool believer. It is nicely illustated and well written. The serious student might find it less than what he needs, but to the novice it is an excellent choice that may, or may not, lead him to explore Darwin's conversion further. It will please those with an adventurous bent as well. A satisfying work worth having in your library to be read again and again. Note: the timing matches Dana's Two Years Before the Mast (1844-46), but what a difference in the treament of the crew.