The Rules of Algebra

The Rules of AlgebraThis cornerstone in the history of mathematics first appeared in 1545 as Artis magnae, sive de regulis algebraicis. A primer on "the great art" of algebra, it contains the first revelation of the principles for solving cubic and biquadratic equations, along with other innovations. Author Girolamo Cardano (1501 76) was famous not only for his prodigious gifts as a mathematician, but also for his skills as a physician, astrologer, and gambler. Cardano's

and severe conditions a year after their capture

The Lady of Shalott

The hilarious "Such Women Are" proves the world is never without a sufficiency of fools

aestheticism

and peopled by realistic characters

the tragedies of Shakespeare constitute a body of work unrivaled in dramatic brilliance

Avoiding topics that require an array of new definitions and abstractions

range from routine calculations to theoretical problems

Included as well are directions for constructing a Dutch cupboard

proportionate

Expertly analyzing Wright's approach to siting

Easily within the reach of anyone with a background in high school mathematics