Home > Arts > Artists > M > George du Maurier
The Survival of the Fittest; application of Darwinism in the 21st century, 1880. Artist: George du Maurier
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
The Survival of the Fittest; application of Darwinism in the 21st century, 1880. Artist: George du Maurier
The Survival of the Fittest ; application of Darwinism in the 21st century, 1880. The term Survival of the fittest was first used by Herbert Spencer (1820-1903) in 1851, and adopted by Darwin in the 6th edition of The Origin of Species (1872). If applied amongst the British aristocracy, by the 21st century they would be divided into two distinct parties, The Handsome People and The Clever People. Fusion of the two by intermarriage would be mutually beneficial to them and their progeny. Cartoon from Punch. (London, 24 April 1880)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14864926
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Background Charles Darwin Charles Robert Check Checked Checker Board Chequered Controversy Darwin Darwinism Dinner Expedition George Du George Du Maurier Maurier Natural History Naturalist Oxford Science Archive Panorama Party Pioneer Punch Punch Or The London Charivari Survival Theory Of Evolution Voyage
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> D
> George Du Maurier
> Arts
> Artists
> M
> George du Maurier
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Charles White
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> George White
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Robert White
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Landscapes
> Nature landscapes
> Arts
> Landscape paintings
> Landscape art
> Landscape paintings
> Arts
> Landscape paintings
> Landscape art
> Nature-inspired artwork
> Arts
> Literature
> Magazines
The Survival of the Fittest; application of Darwinism in the 21st century, 1880
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a thought-provoking and satirical cartoon print by George du Maurier. This artwork, published in Punch magazine, humorously explores the potential consequences of applying Darwin's theory of evolution among the British aristocracy. In this image, we witness a crowd gathered at an extravagant dinner party. The scene is set against a picturesque landscape, symbolizing both progress and exploration. The men present are depicted as pioneers and naturalists, representing scientific curiosity and intellectual pursuits. The main concept behind this illustration lies in dividing the British aristocracy into two distinct parties: "The Handsome People" and "The Clever People". According to du Maurier's interpretation of Darwinism, intermarriage between these groups would lead to mutual benefits for them and their offspring. Through clever satire, du Maurier challenges societal norms by suggesting that physical attractiveness alone should not determine one's social status or success. Instead, he proposes that intelligence should be valued equally alongside beauty. This cartoon print serves as a reminder that even in the late 19th century when Charles Darwin introduced his groundbreaking ideas on evolution, controversies surrounding class divisions persisted. It also highlights how art can be used to convey complex concepts such as survival instincts within society. Overall, "The Survival of the Fittest; application of Darwinism in the 21st century" offers viewers an opportunity to reflect on human nature while appreciating George du Maurier's artistic talent and wit.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
