The Continental Monthly, Vol. 5, No. 4, April, 1864

"The Continental Monthly, Vol. 5, No. 4, April, 1864" by Various is a compilation of essays and reviews that investigates both national policy and literature during the 1860s. At the forefront is a deep look at the relationship between science and religion, most notably concerning Sir Charles Lyell's work on the age of humanity. By examining the clash between theological ideas and scientific findings, especially regarding how old humans are, it prompts readers to question our understanding of where we fit within nature. Overall, this sets a scene of thinking hard and asking important questions. It prepares the reader to explore Sir Charles Lyell's work and positions the conflict between old religious views and new scientific discoveries as important to understanding the time period.