Classical Algebra

This insightful book combines the history, pedagogy, andpopularization of algebra to present a unified discussion of thesubject.
Classical Algebra provides a complete and contemporaryperspective on classical polynomial algebra through the explorationof how it was developed and how it exists today. With a focus onprominent areas such as the numerical solutions of equations, thesystematic study of equations, and Galois theory, this bookfacilitates a thorough understanding of algebra and illustrates howthe concepts of modern algebra originally developed from classicalalgebraic precursors.
This book successfully ties together the disconnect betweenclassical and modern algebraand provides readers with answers tomany fascinating questions that typically go unexamined,including:
* What is algebra about?
* How did it arise?
* What uses does it have?
* How did it develop?
* What problems and issues have occurred in its history?
* How were these problems and issues resolved?
The author answers these questions and more, shedding light on arich history of the subject--from ancient and medieval timesto the present. Structured as eleven "lessons" that are intended togive the reader further insight on classical algebra, each chaptercontains thought-provoking problems and stimulating questions, forwhich complete answers are provided in an appendix.
Complemented with a mixture of historical remarks and analysesof polynomial equations throughout, Classical Algebra: Its Nature,Origins, and Uses is an excellent book for mathematics courses atthe undergraduate level. It also serves as a valuable resource toanyone with a general interest in mathematics.