Alfred Russel Wallace`s The Malay Archipelago is a work of astounding breadth & originality that chronicles the British naturalist`s scientific exploration of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia & New Guinea between 1854 & 1862. An intrepid explorer who earned his living by collecting bird skins, Wallace also catalogued the vast number of plant & animal species that inhabit this unique geographical area. In addition, he
Includes:: numerous observations on the people, their languages, & ways of living & social organization, as well as geological insights into the nature & activity of volcanoes & the destructive force of nature. Colourful personal anecdotes based on experiences during his travels also pepper the text. First published in 1869, The Malay Archipelago provided some of the initial evidence for the modern theory of evolution. Discursive, captivating, occasionally offensive, but always wonderfully descriptive, it remains one of the most extensive works of natural history ever compiled. The Earl of Cranbrook is an expert in the environmental biology of the Malaysian region, & has a special interest in the life & career of Alfred Russel Wallace. About this edition: This edition presents Wallace’s complete, original text, re-proofed & accompanied by the illustrations from the first edition of 1869. About this series: Stanfords Travel Classics feature some of the finest historical travel writing in the English language, with authors hailing from both sides of the Atlantic. Every title has been reset in a contemporary typeface to create a series that every lover of fine travel literature will want to collect & keep.