Underground Mathematics: Craft Culture and Knowledge Production in Early Modern Europe

Underground Mathematics by Thomas Morel explores the forgotten discipline of subterranean geometry, which was developed in the silver mines of early modern Europe. It illustrates how geometry was used in metallic mines by practitioners using esoteric manuscripts, leading to technical and scientific innovations and bringing together artisans, scholars, and courts. The book reconstructs the religious, economic, and cultural context of mining cities to contextualize the rise of numbered information, practical mathematics, and quantification in the early modern period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Subterranean geometry, a forgotten discipline that emerged in the silver mines of early modern Europe, is intricately woven into the narrative of Thomas Morel. Mining and metallurgy held immense importance for the rulers of this era, as the silver bullion they produced was essential for fueling warfare and numerous other applications. In his captivating book, Morel delves into the fascinating world of geometry in metallic mines through seven lively case studies. He showcases how practitioners employed esoteric manuscripts to harness the power of geometry, leading to groundbreaking technical and scientific innovations. This remarkable fusion of artistry, scholarship, and the courts paved the way for a harmonious convergence of knowledge.

Drawing from a wealth of original manuscripts, maps, and archive material, Morel meticulously reconstructs the religious, economic, and cultural context of mining cities. This contextualization provides a profound understanding of the rise of numbered information, practical mathematics, and quantification during the early modern period.

Specific chapters delve into the material culture of surveying, map-making, expertise, and the political uses of quantification. Morel's meticulous reconstruction sheds light on the intricate networks of knowledge exchange that flourished within the Holy Roman Empire and beyond. Underground Mathematics serves as a valuable lens through which to explore the intricate interplay between religion, economics, and culture in the mining communities of early modern Europe. It offers a rich tapestry of insights that deepen our understanding of this pivotal period in history.

ISBN-13: 9781009267304