Dr. Anelli gave an interesting talk about Darwin and his various influences leading up to his publishing of, “On the Origin of Species.” Going into the lecture, I had very little knowledge about Darwin other than his influence on the theory of evolution which was held at face value. Anelli’s lecture, however, gave me insight to what the current theories about species were in Darwin’s time and what previous works influenced him. Before the lecture, I thought of Darwin as being very much a true scientist as is thought about today. Someone who is above the “silly” thoughts of religion and believes in facts and evidence. Although this is obviously not true of every scientist, it is a common thread and misconception in society, especially surrounding theories that shake the very pillars of beliefs that many religions hold. In Darwin’s case, those specifically about the ideology of a perfect creator. Nonetheless, after watching “Creation” and Anelli’s lecture, I found that not to be true.
It is not exactly clear where Darwin’s religious beliefs landed. According to Anelli, there are many speculations about Darwin’s belief in a higher power. After discussion, it was clear that Darwin struggled with publishing his book for quite some time because of the very real consequences that could entail. Darwin’s theory was believed to destroy the naturalist’s ideology that everything was created in its perfect form by the creator and that the little variations held no bearing. Darwin’s theory said quite the opposite. To Darwin, every single variation added up over generations and in fact did matter. Also, Darwin’s book being published risked his relationship with his wife, Emma, and their children.
Darwin was very much a family man and was hesitant about how his words could change his relationship with his wife and inevitability, their children. Darwin’s wife was stronger in her faith and had objections about the ethereal consequences of Darwin’s theory, as was evident in the movie and lecture. Emma believed that Darwin may be eternally damned and would not be able to spend forever in heaven with her. Given the time period, religion was a very important part of life and considered of utmost importance for an individual’s soul. Clearly there was some inner turmoil for Darwin surrounding his theory and publishing of his book.
Dr. Anelli’s lecture, along with the movie, “Creation,” have helped me correct some of my misconceptions about Darwin, as well as fill in gaps about my knowledge about him. I am glad I was able to attend and see what exactly Darwin was about and some of the struggles he faced about his theory that some still struggle to accept today for the exact same reasons. Learning about the historical context surrounding Darwin is invaluable and should not be taken lightly as it helps frame the situation and gives a more human approach to Darwin.
I agree that the movie and lecture humanize Darwin. One thing I still have trouble reconciling, Amanda, is why Emma let Charles be buried in Westminster Abbey, since she is buried at the church at Downe (we will visit both). Perhaps she realized that he had to be given over for the sake of history and so she was willing to not lay side by side with him for eternity for that greater purpose.