French zoologist Georges Cuvier (1769-1832) helped form and bring credibility to geology and paleontology. Here Martin J. S. Rudwick provides the first modern translation of Cuvier's essential writings on fossils and catastrophes and links these translated texts together with his own insightful narrative and interpretive commentary. "Martin Rudwick has done English-speaking science a considerable service by translating and commenting on Cuvier's work. . . . He guides us through Cuvier's most important writings, especially those which demonstrate his new technique of comparative anatomy."—Douglas Palmer, New Scientist

This book, first published in 1984, examines the lifetime of Georges Cuvier, and in his constant and varying struggles to retain his position both as a politician and as a leading naturalist we find displayed almost all of the political tensions of Restoration France. Our understanding of the new French intellectual elite is enhanced if we can explain what sort of power this group wielded, and how it related to the structure of politics as a whole. Cuvier’s career epitomises this relationship to the highest degree. Examination of the building of his career under the Directory and Empire offers many new insights into the way the expanding market for science, the restructuring of society as a whole, and the moral authority of science itself could be utilised as resources in the making of a reputation. The influence of scientific competition and controversy on Cuvier’s scientific work is examined at length, and it is argued that they exerted a decisive effect on the structure of his biological and geological thinking.

Circumstances compelled him in early life to do something toward earning a livelihood, and in 1794 he became tutor in a French Protestant family living in the castle of Fiquainville, near Fécamp. In that little Norman fishing-town he found much to gratify his curiosity; and he might often be seen scouring the country after birds, butterflies, and other insects; or prying into nooks and corners on the shore, after shell-fish and other marine productions; while the treasures of the boundless sea inspired wonder, with a longing to explore its depths and to become acquainted with the forms of life hidden under its waters.

Rapid Read Best Seller Biography: Jean François Champollion+Georges Cuvier+Alexander Von Humboldt+Horace Greeley by Various (Ed. Charles F. Horne): This collection of biographical works offers readers a glimpse into the lives and legacies of some of history's most influential figures. From the decipherer of hieroglyphics Jean François Champollion to the naturalist Georges Cuvier, the explorer Alexander Von Humboldt, and the journalist Horace Greeley, these biographies provide insight into the achievements and contributions of some of the greatest minds of their time. Key Aspects of the Book "Rapid Read Best Seller Biography: Jean François Champollion+Georges Cuvier+Alexander Von Humboldt+Horace Greeley": Diverse Subjects: The collection features biographies of individuals from a variety of fields, including science, exploration, and journalism. Insightful Narratives: Each biography provides a firsthand account of the subject's life and accomplishments, offering readers a deeper understanding of their contributions to history. Expert Editing: Edited by Charles F. Horne, the collection is carefully curated to showcase the most compelling stories and captivating personalities from history. Charles F. Horne was an American author and editor known for his work on popular history and literature. Born in New York in 1870, he wrote and edited numerous biographical works, including the collection featured in Rapid Read Best Seller Biography: Jean François Champollion+Georges Cuvier+Alexander Von Humboldt+Horace Greeley. His contributions to the field of popular history continue to inspire readers and offer valuable insights into the lives and legacies of some of history's most influential figures.