The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne facts for kids
The Natural History of Selborne is a famous book about nature. It was written by Gilbert White, an English naturalist and ornithologist. He was a pioneer, meaning he was one of the first to study nature in this way. The book was first published in 1789. It has been printed many times since then, with almost 300 different versions! The latest one mentioned was The Illustrated Natural History of Selborne in 2007.
Contents
Discovering Nature with Gilbert White
Gilbert White's book is all about the natural world around his home in Selborne, England. He spent many years carefully watching and writing about the animals and plants he saw. This book is like a collection of his letters to other naturalists, sharing his amazing discoveries.
What is Natural History?
Natural history is the study of living things in their natural environment. It's about observing animals, plants, and even rocks and weather. Gilbert White was very good at this. He wrote down everything he saw, from the smallest insects to the biggest birds.
Who Was Gilbert White?
Gilbert White (1720–1793) was an English clergyman and a keen observer of nature. He lived most of his life in the village of Selborne, Hampshire. He didn't travel far, but he found a whole world of nature right in his own backyard. His detailed notes helped people understand more about how nature works.
White's Observations and Discoveries
White was one of the first to notice many things about animals. For example, he figured out that some birds, like swallows, migrate to warmer places for winter instead of hibernating. He also studied how different animals lived and interacted with each other. His book is full of these interesting facts and observations.
The Book's Unique Style
The book is written as a series of letters. Gilbert White wrote to two other naturalists: Thomas Pennant and Daines Barrington. In these letters, he describes his observations, asks questions, and shares his thoughts. This makes the book feel very personal and engaging.
Why is This Book Important?
The Natural History of Selborne is important for several reasons. It helped make natural history a popular subject. It also showed people how to observe nature carefully and record what they saw. Many famous naturalists, like Charles Darwin, were inspired by Gilbert White's work. It's still a beloved book today for anyone who loves nature.
Images for kids
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Foldout frontispiece, North East view of Selborne from the Short Lythe, drawn by Samuel Hieronymus Grimm
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Half-title oval illustration where the hermit hangs his straw-clad cell in the 1813 edition of Gilbert White's Natural History of Selborne. Painting by Samuel Hieronymus Grimm; engraved by William Angus. The "hermit" was Henry White, dressed to look picturesque.
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Correspondent: the Welsh author and naturalist Thomas Pennant (1726–1798)
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Correspondent: the English lawyer and naturalist Daines Barrington (1727–1800)
See also
In Spanish: The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne para niños
