Table of Contents

Preface; Acknowledgments; A note about dates; Abbreviations used in footnotes; 1. The discovery of a new world; 2. A sober, silent, thinking lad; 3. The solitary scholar; 4. Resolving problems by motion; 5. Anni mirabiles; 6. Lucasian professor; 7. Publication and crisis; 8. Rebellion; 9. Years of silence; 10. Principia; 11. Revolution; 12. The Mint; 13. President of the Royal Society; 14. The priority dispute; 15. Years of decline; Bibliographical essay; List of illustrations; Index.

Promotional Information

This richly detailed 1981 biography captures both the personal life and the scientific career of Isaac Newton.

Reviews

'This monumental scientific biography provides a masterly, well-documented summary of contemporary views of all the many facets of Newton's astoundingly wide-ranging career.' Nature 'The first detailed biography of Newton written by a professional historian of science who, over the years, has mastered the prodigious literature, weighed it judiciously, and still manages to reveal new insights by delving into the mass of Newton's unpublished writings. Westfall has produced a work of major significance.' Science 'A monumental biography, and a delight to read.' The New Yorker 'Richard Westfall has done Newton proud.' The Economist