The history of the Royal Society in the nineteenth century is published as a full-length account for the first time in this book. Dr Marie Boas Hall has meticulously explored this fascinating period, using the Royal Society's own records. In 1800 the Royal Society was a leisurely club for scientists, scholars/politicians and patrons of science and learning. More important, it was a centre for improving knowledge of the natural sciences, and adviser to the Government on scientific matters. The first half of the book describes the manner of transition; the struggles and controversies among the most eminent scientists of the day. The second half concerns the emergence of the Royal Society as once again a leader of scientific opinion, as the recognised intermediary between science and Government, and as the chief advisory body to the Government. In the nineteenth century it became, in fact, the national academy of science.

Bright, humorous and engaging, Marcet's best-selling 1805 book was designed to introduce women to scientific ideas.