Living language sets out the history of biology. At the same time, attention is paid not only to representatives of the biological sciences in a narrow sense, but an attempt is made to connect the development of biological teachings and ideas with the philosophical, religious and literary ideas of the corresponding eras. The writings of a number of the largest representatives of biology are detailed and cited. Despite the large and complex factual material, the book is easy to read and accessible not only to students, secondary school teachers and scientists, but also to wide reading circles interested in the history of biology.