Memoirs of the Life, Writings, and Discoveries of Sir Isaac Newton

Sir David Brewster (1781–1868) was a Scottish physicist, mathematician, astronomer, inventor, and writer of international reputation. His biography of Sir Isaac Newton, published in 1855 and reissued in 1860, was the result of over twenty years' research, undertaken while publishing hundreds of scientific papers of his own. Brewster made use of previously unknown correspondence by Newton, and his own scientific interests, particularly in optics, meant that he was able to understand and explain Newton's work. It covered the many facets of Newton's personality and work, remaining the best available study of Newton for over a century. Brewster reveals much about the science of his own time in his handling of earlier centuries, and as a cleric was obviously uncomfortable about the evidence of Newton's unorthodox religious views and alchemical studies. Volume 2 covers the period from the dispute with Leibniz to Newton's death, and considers his posthumous reputation.

15. Nicolas Facio de Duillier attacks Leibnitz; 16. Newton declines taking orders; 17. Newton's health impaired; 18. Newton occupied with the lunar theory; 19. No mark of national gratitude conferred on Newton; 20. Sir Isaac is anxious to have the Greenwich Observations published; 21. Dissensions in the Royal Society; 22. Leibnitz attacks Netwon's Philosophy; 23. The Princess of Wales obtains from Newton a manuscript abstract of his system of chronology; 24. Theological writings of Newton; 25. Sir Isaac's early study of chemistry; 26. Newton's first attack of ill health, and his recovery; 27. Permanence of Newton's reputation; Appendix; Index.

Sir David Brewster (1781-1868) was a Scottish physicist of international reputation. This classic biography of Sir Isaac Newton, first published in 1855, was the result of over twenty years' research, using previously unknown correspondence. Brewster's own scientific interests, particularly in optics, gave him the ability to communicate Newton's work.