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Galileo's Daughter
432 pages, 2011
biographies & memoirs
997 books
spirituality & religion
408 booksInspired by a long fascination with Galileo, and by the remarkable surviving letters of his daughter Maria Celeste, Dava Sobel has crafted a biography that dramatically recolors the personality and accomplishments of a mythic figure whose early-seventeenth-century clash with Catholic doctrine continues to define the schism between science and religion-the man Albert Einstein called "the father of modern physics-indeed of modern science altogether."
It is also a stunning portrait of Galileo's daughter, whom many readers will not have heard of before now, but who was remarkably intelligent and dear to her father.
Sobel's book illuminates the Florence of the Medicis, the papal court in Rome, and Galileo's life during the pivotal era when humanity's perception of its place in the cosmos was about to be overturned.
During that same time, while the bubonic plague wreaked its terrible devastation and the Thirty Years' War tipped fortunes across Europe, Galileo sought to reconcile his religious beliefs with his scientific discoveries through his telescope. Filled with human drama and scientific adventure, Galileo's Daughter is an unforgettable story.
In Galileo's Daughter, Dava Sobel highlights the importance of letters as a means of communication. Galileo and his daughter Maria Celeste maintained a strong bond through their letters, despite being physically separated. This shows us the power of words and how they can keep relationships alive, even when we can't be with our loved ones.
Sobel's book explores the complex relationship between science and religion. Galileo, a devout Catholic, faced opposition from the Church due to his scientific discoveries. This encourages us to look into the ongoing dialogue between faith and reason, and how they can coexist.
Through the character of Maria Celeste, Sobel brings to light the often overlooked role of women in history. Despite living in a male-dominated society, Maria Celeste was a significant figure in Galileo's life. This book encourages us to research and appreciate the contributions of women in shaping our world.
Galileo's Daughter gives us a glimpse into the personal life of the great scientist Galileo. It shows us that behind every great mind, there's a human with emotions, struggles, and relationships. This book invites us to see the human side of the people we admire.
Galileo's relentless pursuit of truth, despite facing opposition, is a key theme in Sobel's book. It inspires us to stand by our beliefs and seek the truth, no matter the obstacles. So, if you're passionate about something, don't be afraid to dig deeper and find the truth.
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A captivating, enlightening journey through the history of science and the indefatigable spirit of one man, Galileo, as seen through the loving eyes of his daughter.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderA beautifully written, deeply moving account of one of the greatest scientists in history, Galileo, and the love he had for his illegitimate daughter.
Richard Dawkins - Evolutionary BiologistA compelling narrative that intertwines the life of Galileo with the voice of his daughter, illuminating the human side of science.
Neil deGrasse Tyson - Astrophysicist