Hummingbirds and the Evolution of Thought

This chapter explores the profound relationship between Charles Darwin and hummingbirds, showcasing Darwin's fascination with these creatures and their role in evolution discourse. It highlights the tension between science and faith in the late 19th century through the work of ornithologist John Gould and the symbolic significance of hummingbirds in American culture after the Civil War. The narrative intertwines art, literature, and nature, focusing on the insights of Martin Johnson Heade and Emily Dickinson, revealing the emotional landscapes of the Gilded Age.