Plot summary, “Galileo's Daughter” by Dava Sobel in 4 Minutes - Book Review
0"Galileo's Daughter: A Historical Memoir of Science, Faith, and Love" is a non-fiction book written by Dava Sobel. It was published in 1999 and is a unique exploration of the life and work of the famous Italian scientist Galileo Galilei, with a particular focus on his relationship with his daughter, Sister Maria Celeste (born Virginia Galilei).
The book is based on the surviving letters exchanged between Galileo and Sister Maria Celeste, who was a nun living in the Convent of San Matteo in Arcetri, Italy. These letters provide a personal and emotional insight into the life of Galileo, as well as the challenges and conflicts he faced during the 17th century.
Dava Sobel's narrative weaves together the scientific and personal aspects of Galileo's life, demonstrating how his revolutionary discoveries, such as his observations of the moons of Jupiter and his support for the heliocentric model of the solar system, were intertwined with the challenges posed by the Catholic Church and the broader societal norms of the time. The book also delves into the role of Sister Maria Celeste, who was a source of emotional support and inspiration for her father, as well as a conduit for their communication.
Sobel's work sheds light on the complex relationship between science and religion during the time of the Inquisition and the Catholic Church's skepticism toward the heliocentric model. It also explores the themes of faith, love, and the human connections that transcend the boundaries of time and space.
"Galileo's Daughter" offers a rich and engaging narrative that combines historical research, personal correspondence, and scientific exploration to create a vivid portrait of one of history's most influential scientists and his often-overlooked daughter. The book received critical acclaim for its ability to humanize Galileo and his family and provide a compelling perspective on the intersection of science and faith in the early modern period.