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Strata of red sandstone, slightly inclined, resting on vertical schist, at Siccar Point
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Strata of red sandstone, slightly inclined, resting on vertical schist, at Siccar Point
Strata of red sandstone, slightly inclined, resting on vertical schist, at Siccar Point, Berwickshire, illustrating nonconformable strata, and so long geological time scale. In his biography of Hutton, Playfair, remembering being taken to Siccar Point by his teacher, wrote The mind seemed to grow giddy looking so far into the abyss of time: and while we listened with earnestness and admiration to the philosopher who was now unfolding to us the order and series of these wonderful events, we became sensible how much farther reason may sometimes go than imagination can venture to follow. From Charles Lyell A Manual of Elementary Geology, London, 1852
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Media ID 9783493
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1852 Charles Elementary Follow Geological Geology Illustrating Imagination Inclined Long Manual Order Philosopher Playfair Point Resting Sandstone Scale Schist Science Series Teacher Time Abyss Admiration Berwickshire Biography Events Farther Giddy Grow Hutton Listened Lyell Mind Reason Remembering Strata Unfolding Venture Wonderful
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the awe-inspiring geological formations at Siccar Point in Berwickshire. The image showcases the juxtaposition of red sandstone strata, slightly inclined, resting upon vertical schist rocks, illustrating a remarkable example of nonconformable strata and emphasizing the immense timescale of Earth's history. The significance of this location is beautifully described by Playfair in his biography of Hutton. As he recalls being taken to Siccar Point by his teacher, he reminisces about how their minds were overwhelmed by the profound depth of time represented in these rock layers. He eloquently writes that "the mind seemed to grow giddy looking so far into the abyss of time" highlighting how reason can surpass imagination when contemplating such ancient events. From Charles Lyell's Manual of Elementary Geology published in 1852, we learn that this site served as a pivotal moment for understanding geology and furthering our knowledge about Earth's past. It exemplifies the principles behind uniformitarianism – the idea that present-day geological processes can be used to interpret past events. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing photograph, we are reminded not only of nature's grandeur but also our own insignificance within its vast timeline. It sparks admiration for those who have dedicated their lives to unraveling Earth's mysteries and inspires us to continue exploring and appreciating our planet's wonders.
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