States the evidence for a theory of evolution, explains how evolution takes place, and discusses instinct, hybridism, fossils, distribution, and classification, in a volume that includes explanatory notes and background information.

"Includes detailed explanatory notes, an overview of key themes, and more"--Cover.

Chronology of Charles Darwin's Life and Work -- Historical Context of The Origin of Species -- THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES: -- An Historical Sketch-- Introduction -- Variation Under Domestication -- Variation Under Nature -- Struggle for Existence -- Natural Selection -- Laws of Variation -- Difficulties on Theory -- Instinct -- Hybridism -- On the Imperfection of the Geological Record-- On the Geological Succession of Organic Beings -- Geographical Distribution -- Geographical Distribution (continued)-- Mutual Affinities of Organic Beings: Morphology: Embryology: Rudimentary Organs -- Recapitulation and Conclusion.