Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1859) was a naturalist, explorer and philanthropist now well known for his multidisciplinary approach to science. First published in English in 1873, this two-volume biography was translated from the German edition of 1872, edited by Karl Bruhns, which had been compiled in commemoration of the centenary of Humboldt's birth. Incorporating numerous extracts of Humboldt's own warmly written letters and anecdotes from his many acquaintances, it charts his travels in South America, Asia and Europe. Volume 2 covers his later life, exploring his impecunious period in Paris at the École Polytechnique, where he shared rooms with the famous French chemist Gay-Lussac, and later, his close association with King Frederick William IV of Prussia. Ideal for students and researchers in the history of science, this is a minutely detailed and compelling insight into the life of the man behind the scientist.
Contents
Part III. Sojourn in Paris from 1808 to 1826: 1. Publication of the results of the expedition to South America; 2. Friends and coadjutors at Paris; 3. Characteristic traits and personal incidents; Part IV. The Meridian and Decline of Life. Berlin, 1827–59: 1. Residence at Berlin to the revolution of July; 2. From the revolution of July to the death of Frederick William III; 3. From the accession of Frederick William IV to the revolution of 1848; 4. The last ten years; Index.
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