Overview

This book portrays the introduction of the mathematical sign zero as a major signifying event, both within the writing of numbers and as an emblem of parallel events in other sign systems.

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9780804721295

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A delightful analysis... Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, ... Rotman builds a viable thesis for the semiotics of zero via a thorough examination of Montaigne's Essays, Shakespeare's King Lear, the Kabbalah, and Vermeer's paintings. - Choice

'This unusual book is a delightful analysis of the nature of zero as a sign intimately connected to the idea of nothing. Rotman draws interesting parallels using the textual code systems of mathematics, painting, and economic exchange and their respective meta-signs - zero, the vanishing point, imaginary money - which represent the absence of certain signs. Focusing on the Renaissance period, the author argues that the introduction of the meta-sign disrupts a code system and prompts the creating of new sign systems, as represented by the multifarious transitions from Roman to Hindu numerals, from iconic to perspective art, and from gold money to imaginary bank money. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach ... Rotman builds a viable thesis for the semiotics of zero via a thorough examination of Montaigne's Essays, Shakespeare's King Lear, the Kabbalah and Vermeer's paintings'.Choice

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