Michael Faraday
Third Edition, with Portrait
"Michael Faraday" by J. H. Gladstone is a biographical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the life and accomplishments of the renowned scientist Michael Faraday, tracing his journey from humble beginnings in London to becoming a celebrated figure in the world of science. Gladstone seeks to illuminate not just Faraday's scientific contributions but also the character and morality that drove his work. The opening of the biography sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Faraday's early years, beginning with his childhood in Jacob's Well Mews, London, where he grew up under challenging circumstances. We learn about his inquisitive nature, his early education, and how he became an apprentice at a local bookseller. This initial chapter captures his thirst for knowledge, detailing how he engaged with scientific texts and conducted simple experiments. Gladstone uses this foundational narrative to highlight Faraday's resilience and ambition, establishing the character traits that would guide him throughout his remarkable career in science.