
Darwin and the Monsters
The Long History of Cryptozoology
Brian Regal(Author)
Routledge (Publisher)
1st Edition
Published on 1. June 2026
Book
Hardback
156 pages
978-1-032-78634-6 (ISBN)
Description
Regal tells the story of the engagement of philosophers, naturalists, and scientists in what we now call "cryptozoology," a much longer history than most appreciate.
Most believe cryptozoology - the study of mysterious, unrecognized creatures - emerged in the 20th century. But the fascination with monsters and the unknown stretches back to the ancient world. Long before the term was coined, philosophers and naturalists pondered the existence of cryptids, weaving them into the fabric of scientific curiosity. Challenging the notion that mainstream science has always dismissed cryptids, it reveals a rich history of inquiry and debate.
Offering a groundbreaking examination of the long and complex history of cryptozoology, Regal situates it within broader debates about biology, evolution, and the limits of scientific knowledge. A fascinating read for students and scholars of cryptozoology, the history of biology and zoology, and science, technology, and society studies.
Most believe cryptozoology - the study of mysterious, unrecognized creatures - emerged in the 20th century. But the fascination with monsters and the unknown stretches back to the ancient world. Long before the term was coined, philosophers and naturalists pondered the existence of cryptids, weaving them into the fabric of scientific curiosity. Challenging the notion that mainstream science has always dismissed cryptids, it reveals a rich history of inquiry and debate.
Offering a groundbreaking examination of the long and complex history of cryptozoology, Regal situates it within broader debates about biology, evolution, and the limits of scientific knowledge. A fascinating read for students and scholars of cryptozoology, the history of biology and zoology, and science, technology, and society studies.
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Target group
College/higher education
Postgraduate, Undergraduate Advanced, and Undergraduate Core
Dimensions
Height: 234 mm
Width: 156 mm
Weight
450 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-032-78634-6 (9781032786346)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
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E-Book
06/2026
Routledge
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Available for download

E-Book
06/2026
Routledge
€55.49
Available for download

Book
06/2026
1st Edition
Routledge
€52.50
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Person
Brian Regal is Professor of the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine at Kean University, USA.
Content
Introduction; 1. Monsters of the Ancient and Early Modern Worlds; 2. Collecting Monsters; 3. Worrisome Wolves and Beastly Men; 4. The Fearless Sea-Serpent Killers; 5. The True Believers; 6. Darwin and the Monsters; 7. The Invention of Cryptozoology; Conclusion