The Descent of Man (Annotated)
Enriched Edition. Selection in Relation to SexBy Charles Darwin
Length32h 30m
About this audiobook
In The Descent of Man (1871), Charles Darwin extends the theory of natural selection from the origin of species to the vexed question of human origins. Combining comparative anatomy, embryology, psychology, ethnography, and observation of animal behavior, the book argues that humans share common ancestry with other animals and that mental and moral faculties evolved gradually. Its prose is patient, evidentiary, and cautiously polemical, situated within Victorian scientific debate and directly engaging theological and philosophical assumptions about human uniqueness. Darwin wrote from the authority earned by On the Origin of Species, yet also from decades of collecting evidence that he had initially withheld from public controversy. His experience as a naturalist on the Beagle, his correspondence with breeders and colonial observers, and his studies of variation, instinct, and sexual selection all shaped this work. The book also reflects the intellectual tensions of nineteenth-century Britain, where science increasingly challenged inherited hierarchies of nature and humanity. This is essential reading for anyone interested in evolutionary biology, intellectual history, or the modern understanding of humankind. Though some period assumptions require critical scrutiny, Darwin's central method—careful comparison, cumulative evidence, and conceptual daring—remains profoundly instructive.
This enriched edition has been carefully crafted to add value to your reading experience.
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreScience and Nature
Length32 hrs 30 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateDec 12, 2020
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
19Chapter IX. Secondary Sexual Characters in the Lower Classes of the Animal Kingdom.
2Introduction
20Chapter X. Secondary Sexual Characters of Insects.
3Synopsis
21Chapter XI. Insects, continued.—Order Lepidoptera.
4Historical Context
22Chapter XII. Secondary Sexual Characters of Fishes, Amphibians, and Reptiles.
5Author Biography
23Chapter XIII. Secondary Sexual Characters of Birds.
Show all chaptersShow less
6The Descent of Man
24Chapter XIV. Birds—continued.
7Introduction.
25Chapter XV. birds—continued.
8Part I. The Descent or Origin of Man.
26Chapter XVI. Birds—concluded.
9Chapter I. The Evidence of the Descent of Man from some Lower Form.
27Chapter XVII. Secondary Sexual Characters of Mammals.
10Chapter II. On the Manner of Development of Man from some Lower Form.
28Chapter XVIII. Secondary Sexual Characters of Mammals—continued.
11Chapter III. Comparison of the Mental Powers of Man and the Lower Animals.
29Part III. Sexual Selection in Relation to Man, and Conclusion.
12Chapter IV. Comparison of the Mental Powers of Man and the Lower Animals—continued.
30Chapter XIX. Secondary Sexual Characters of Man.
13Chapter V. On the Development of the Intellectual and Moral Faculties during Primeval and Civilised Times.
31Chapter XX. Secondary Sexual Characters of Man—continued.
14Chapter VI. On the Affinities and Genealogy of Man.
32Chapter XXI. General Summary and Conclusion.
15Chapter VII. On the Races of Man.
33Analysis
16Part II. Sexual Selection.
34Reflection
17Chapter VIII. Principles of Sexual Selection. (pt. 1)
35Memorable Quotes
18Chapter VIII. Principles of Sexual Selection. (pt. 2)
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