Abstract
LAVOISIER, founder of modern chemistry, and one of France's greatest sons, has formed the subject of many biographical studies. Some of these have dealt mainly with his scientific achievements, others with his place in history. Mr. French has been very successful in his attempt to give a complete synthesis of this versatile and commanding, figure in pre-Revolution France. Here we see Lavoisier not only as the inspired creator of a new chemistry, but also as one whose “active mind coordinated scientific genius, business efficiency, political vision, and public benefaction in a perfect harmony of tone". His domestic, social and political back grounds are clearly outlined in the course of an easy, attractive and, at times, dramatic narrative ; so are his relationships with Priestley, Cavendish (who is wrongly mentioned on p. 146 as "Lord" Henry Cavendish), and a galaxy of scientific men of his day.
Torch and Crucible
The Life and Death of Antoine Lavoisier. By Sidney J. French. Pp. x + 285. (Princeton, N. J.: Princeton University Press ; London: Oxford University Press, 1941.) 21s. 6d. net.
Article PDF
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
R., J. Torch and Crucible. Nature 150, 619 (1942). https://doi.org/10.1038/150619a0
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/150619a0