Darwin's Brave New World

In 1859 Charles Darwin published the book The Origin of Species, presenting his theory of how life on earth evolved. His radical ideas were ridiculed when he presented them, but went on to form the basis of the evolutionary theory of today. This three-part series presents Darwin’s life and career during this time. Using a mixture of dramatization, narration and academic commentary, we see his first expedition as a 26-year-old on the HMS Beagle, his distress at the death of his young daughter, and the life-long friendships he made. Some of these supported him through the trials of publishing as he battled illness, religious doubt and many challenges while developing his idea of natural selection and survival of the fittest. Narrated by Wendy Hughes and with commentary from contemporary academics, this series gives a fascinating insight into the development of a breakthrough idea.