Darwin Mythology : Debunking Myths, Correcting Falsehoods

Many historical ?gures have their lives and works shrouded in myth, both in life and long after their deaths.Charles Darwin (1809-82) is no exception to this phenomenon and his hero-worship has become an accepted narrative.This concise, accessible and engaging collection unpacks this narrative to rehumanize Darwin's story and establish what it meant to be a 'genius' in the Victorian context.Leading Darwin scholars have come together to argue that, far from being a lonely genius in an ivory tower, Darwin had fortune, diligence and - crucially - community behind him.The aims of this essential work are twofold. First, to set the historical record straight, debunking the most pervasive myths and correcting falsehoods.Second, to provide a deeper understanding of the nature of science itself, relevant to historians, scientists and the public alike.