Synopses & Reviews
In a detailed and comprehensive introduction to the theory of plane algebraic curves, the authors examine this classical area of mathematics that both figured prominently in ancient Greek studies and remains a source of inspiration and topic of research to this day. Arising from notes for a course given at the University of Bonn in Germany, "Plane Algebraic Curves" reflects the author's concern for the student audience through emphasis upon motivation, development of imagination, and understanding of basic ideas. As classical objects, curves may be viewed from many angles; this text provides a foundation for the comprehension and exploration of modern work on singularities.
Review
From the reviews: "This is a masterly expositional work in which the conversational style of narrative never leaves the reader in doubt about the direction of enquiry. ... the richness of this publication really resides in the fascinating range of mathematical ideas that support its main line of enquiry. ... it can be read selectively at so many different levels up to the postgraduate stage." (PeterRuane,The Mathematical Association of America, January, 2013)
Synopsis
This book offers a detailed and comprehensive introduction to the theory of plane algebraic curves, providing a foundation for the comprehension and exploration of modern work on singularities. Includes many examples, and references to additional literature.
About the Author
Egbert Brieskorn was a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Bonn, Germany. Horst Knörrer is a Professor of Mathematics at the ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
Table of Contents
I. History of algebraic curves.- 1. Origin and generation of curves.- 2. Synthetic and analytic geometry.- 3. The development of projective geometry.- II. Investigation of curves by elementary algebraic methods.- 4. Polynomials.- 5. Definition and elementary properties of plane algebraic curves.- 6. The intersection of plane curves.- 7. Some simple types of curves.- III. Investigation of curves by resolution of singularities.- 8. Local investigations.- 9. Global investigations.- Bibliography.- Index.