Micrographia - Publication

Publication

Published under the aegis of The Royal Society, the popularity of the book helped further the society's image and mission of being "the" scientifically progressive organization of London. Micrographia also focused attention on the miniature world, capturing the public's imagination in a radically new way. This impact is illustrated by Samuel Pepys' reaction upon completing the tome: "the most ingenious book that I ever read in my life."

Hooke also selected several objects of human origin; among these objects were the jagged edge of a honed razor and the point of a needle, seeming blunt under the microscope. His goal may well have been as a way to contrast the flawed products of mankind with the perfection of nature (and hence, in the spirit of the times, of biblical creation).

  • Gallery

  • Microscope manufactured by Christopher Cock of London for Robert Hooke. Hooke is believed to have used this microscope for the observations that formed the basis of Micrographia. (M-030 00276) Courtesy - Billings Microscope Collection, National Museum of Health and Medicine, AFIP).

  • Hooke's drawing of a louse

  • Hooke's drawing of a flea

  • Hooke's microscope.

  • Hooke was the first to apply the word "cell" to biological objects: Cork.

  • Hooke's drawing of a gnat.

  • Hooke's drawing of a grey dronefly.

Read more about this topic:  Micrographia

Famous quotes containing the word publication:

    “Of all human events, perhaps, the publication of a first volume of verses is the most insignificant; but though a matter of no moment to the world, it is still of some concern to the author.”
    —Herman Melville (1819–1891)

    “I would rather have as my patron a host of anonymous citizens digging into their own pockets for the price of a book or a magazine than a small body of enlightened and responsible men administering public funds. I would rather chance my personal vision of truth striking home here and there in the chaos of publication that exists than attempt to filter it through a few sets of official, honorably public-spirited scruples.”
    —John Updike (b. 1932)

    “An action is the perfection and publication of thought. A right action seems to fill the eye, and to be related to all nature.”
    —Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)