Overview

For historians of mathematics and those interested in the history of science, 'A Discourse Concerning Algebra' provides an new and readable account of the rise of algebra in England from the Medieval period to the later years of the 17th century. Including new research, this is the most detailed study to date of early modern English algebra, which builds on work published in 1685 by John Wallis (Savilian Professor of Geometry at Oxford) on the history of algebra. Stedall's book follows the reception and dissemination of important algebraic ideas and methods from continental Europe (especially those of Viéte) and the consequent revolution in the state of English mathematics in the 17th century. The text emphasises the contribution of Wallis, but substantial reference is also provided to other important mathematicans such as Harriot, Oughtred, Pell and Brouncker.

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9780198524953

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Reviews

... this is a fascinating and stimulating read. Despite its evident scholarship it is never dry: there is a wealth of historical detail about these algebraists as people and their work is presented in a lively and lucid fashion ... here is a chance to get acquainted with some of the lesser-known names in the history of mathematics. The Mathematical Gazette ... a riveting read ... Stedall presents the history of 17th century algebra as a much richer topic than has traditionally been the case. MAA Online ... wonderfully lucid ... without any compromises on scholarship. Tony Mann, University of Greenwich

... this is a fascinating and stimulating read. Despite its evident scholarship it is never dry: there is a wealth of historical detail about these algebraists as people and their work is presented in a lively and lucid fashion ... here is a chance to get acquainted with some of the lesser-known names in the history of mathematics. The Mathematical Gazette ... a riveting read ... Stedall presents the history of 17th century algebra as a much richer topic than has traditionally been the case. MAA Online ... wonderfully lucid ... without any compromises on scholarship. Tony Mann, University of Greenwich

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