Meet the Scientists: The Restoration Era & the Royal Society

Trace the origins and early modern history of the Royal Society during the Restoration era, whose founders included Sir Christopher Wren, Robert Boyle and William Petty. Explore some of the society's early experiments and research, with particular reference to Hooke's Micrographia and the Dutch influenced 'observation of little animals' which gave rise to the concept of microbiology.

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  • Start Date: 14 Dec 2026
    End Date: 14 Dec 2026
    Mon (Evening): 19:00 - 20:30
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: HHS23
    Tutors:  Ellen Carpenter
    Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00
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In stock
SKU
252791
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00

What is the course about?

We will explore the early history of the Royal Society covering the period 1660-1687, with reference to the ways in which scientific research and experiments were conducted in the 1600's.

What will we cover?

  • The 'Invisible College' & the origins of the Royal Society
  • The Stuarts and royal patronage (with reference to Prince Rupert's Drop)
  • European and Global influences
  • The RS's early scientific experiments (notably Hooke's)

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

  • Evaluate the significance of the Royal Society in the history of science
  • Identify the significance of key figures in the RS in the 1600s
  • Assess and explain how scientific experiments were conducted in the 1600s, with particular reference to the work of Robert Hooke

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Introductory. Everyone welcome. An interest in the topic and a willingness to engage in class discussions are the only requirements.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

One-off interactive lecture with opportunity for Q & A. Further reading and slides provided.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No other costs. Just bring an enthusiasm for the history of science!

PowerPoint slides provided with basic bullet points for general reference but bring a pen and paper if you wish to take additional notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

We are running a Meet the Scientists series this year - the next topic will be Edward Jenner with David Ingledew. Ellen will run a session later in the academic year on Mary Anning & paleontology. Please see our History of Science area for further details.

Ellen Carpenter
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.