Mathematical Recreations in the Middle Ages

This book explores the use of mathematics in the Middle Ages, including mathematical games and recreational problems, which were designed to demonstrate that mathematics could be both fun and useful.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 05 February 2024
Publisher: Presses Polytechniques et Universitaires Romandes

A captivating exploration of mathematics in the Middle Ages unfolds within the pages of this remarkable book. It brings together a diverse array of unusual and captivating examples of Medieval mathematical exercises, showcasing the playful and imaginative nature of this era's mathematical pursuits. Medieval treatises on arithmetic and algebra, in addition to their practical applications in commerce and daily life, often included a delightful mix of mathematical games and recreational problems. While these problems may have initially appeared to be rooted in the realm of trade or everyday existence, they often embraced scenarios that were whimsical, if not entirely absurd. As this book vividly illustrates, the authors of these problem sets harbored a profound belief that mathematics could be both enjoyable and immensely valuable. They sought to demonstrate that mathematics had the power to engage the mind, stimulate creativity, and solve practical problems with ingenuity and wit. Through their imaginative problem sets, they encouraged readers to explore the vast possibilities of mathematics and to appreciate its role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the Middle Ages. This book serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of mathematics in human history, reminding us of the power of play, imagination, and rigorous thinking to unlock the secrets of the universe.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 159 x 239 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9782889155125