Micrographia or Some Physiological Descriptions of Minute Bodies

Originally published in 1665, Micrographia is the most famous and influential work of English scholar ROBERT HOOKE (1635-1703), a notable member of the Royal Society and the scientist for whom Hooke's Law of elasticity is named.

Here, Hooke describes his observations of various household and biological specimens, such as the eye of a fly and the structure of plants, and became the first person to use the term cell in biology, as the cells in plants reminded him of monk's living quarters. In addition to his studies using a microscope, Hooke also discusses the heavenly bodies as visible through a telescope.

Students of science and the history of science will find Hooke's early forays into biology and optics a good primer for further learning.