A Manual of Elementary Geology or The Ancient Changes of the Earth

"A Manual of Elementary Geology or The Ancient Changes of the Earth and Its Inhabitants as illustrated by Geological Monuments" was written by Sir Charles Lyell and first published in 1838 with subsequent editions published in 1840, 1851, and 1855

 

It is a comprehensive introduction to the field of geology and covers a wide range of topics related to the history and development of the Earth.

 

The book is divided into three parts. The first part provides an overview of the geological processes that have shaped the Earth over time, including the formation of rocks, the role of erosion and weathering, and the movement of tectonic plates.

 

The second part focuses on the fossil record and the evolution of life on Earth, including the development of different species and the impact of extinction events.

 

The third and final part of the book looks at the geological history of different regions around the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Lyell uses specific geological monuments and formations to illustrate the concepts and processes he discusses throughout the book, providing readers with a tangible understanding of the science of geology.

 

Throughout the book, Lyell emphasizes the importance of a scientific approach to understanding the Earth and the need for empirical evidence and observation in geological research. He also stresses the concept of uniformitarianism, which suggests that the same geological processes that are observable today have been acting on the Earth throughout its history.

 

"A Manual of Elementary Geology" was a widely influential book in its time and remains an important resource for students and professionals in the field of geology. It has a  clear and accessible writing style.

Charles Lyell (1797-1875) was a Scottish geologist and one of the most important figures in the development of modern geology. He is often referred to as the father of modern geology and was a significant influence on the work of Charles Darwin.

 

Lyell is best known for his three-volume work, "Principles of Geology," which was published between 1830 and 1833. In this book, he argued that the processes that shape the Earth's surface, such as erosion and deposition, have been acting gradually and continuously over long periods of time. This idea, known as uniformitarianism, was a major departure from the prevailing view at the time, which held that the Earth had been shaped by catastrophic events such as floods and earthquakes.

 

Lyell's work on uniformitarianism had a profound impact on the scientific community and helped to establish geology as a legitimate science. He also made significant contributions to the study of stratigraphy, the science of rock layers, and developed a classification system for rocks and geological formations.

 

Another key contribution of Lyell was his support for Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. In his book, "The Geological Evidences of the Antiquity of Man," published in 1863, Lyell argued that the Earth was far older than had previously been believed, which provided crucial support for Darwin's theory of natural selection.

 

Lyell was a prominent figure in the scientific community and was elected President of the Geological Society of London in 1835. He was also knighted in 1848 in recognition of his contributions to science.

This is a rare copy of an important Victorian Scientific work by one of Scotland's foremost scientific minds.

 

SIze -  Crown Octavo (8vo) —  approximately 15 cm x 23 cm (5 ¾” x 9”

Binding - The binding was originally made by Remnant & Edmonds of Paternoster Row, London from 1830 to 1860s. It is a fine binding with decorated boards and gilt nautilus fossil on front. There is some loss at the top and bottom of the spine.

Pages - The overall binding remains strong. The pages are bright throughout. There is some discolouration of the edges due to dust exposure.

Conservation Notes: This is a scarce and important edition and should be stored carefully to preserve it from any further deterioration - We would recommend it is kept in a protective book box or alternatively repaired and perhaps even rebound.

 

Please check the images associated with this Book to gain a clear insight into the book's condition and if you require further details please send an email enquiry.

Originally sold by W. F. Watson, Book Seller and Stationer at 52 Princes Street, Edinburgh - seller label on inside end-paper.

There is the label for the binder "Remnants and Edmonds" on the rear end-paper.