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  • © 2013

Practical mathematics in a commercial metropolis

Mathematical life in late 16th century Antwerp

Authors:

  • First study of the social situation of 16th century mathematics teachers and the effects of external influences on their social position
  • Lavishly illustrated with archival and iconographic material
  • Includes a chapter on a forgotten mathematical practice, winegauging, which led Kepler to solids of revolution and infinitesimals

Part of the book series: Archimedes (ARIM, volume 31)

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Table of contents (12 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-xv
  2. Introduction

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 1-8
  3. The Coignet Family

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 9-23
  4. The Arithmetic Teacher and His School

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 35-56
  5. The Antwerp Arithmetic Books

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 57-95
  6. Wine Gauging

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 97-112
  7. Instrument Makers

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 113-137
  8. The Art of Navigation

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 139-160
  9. Mapping the World

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 161-177
  10. Stargazing

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 179-196
  11. Ballistics and Fortifications

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 197-210
  12. Conclusion

    • Ad Meskens
    Pages 211-212
  13. Back Matter

    Pages 213-258

About this book

Describes the development and the ultimate demise of the practice of mathematics in sixteenth century Antwerp. Against the background of the violent history of the Religious Wars the story of the practice of mathematics in Antwerp is told through the lives of two protagonists Michiel Coignet and Peeter Heyns. The book touches on all aspects of practical mathematics from teaching  and instrument making to the practice of building fortifications of the practice of navigation.​

Reviews

From the reviews:

“This remarkable book centers on the city of Antwerp in the latter half of the 16th century, but it will be of interest to anyone who is curious about the development of mathematics and its application to a variety of fields during that period. … This interesting and scholarly work enhances our knowledge of the role of applied mathematics not only in Antwerp but also in Europe. It can be warmly recommended.” (William R. Shea, Mathematical Reviews, December, 2013)

Authors and Affiliations

  • , Department Bedrijfskunde,, Artesis Hogeschool Antwerpen, Antwerpen, Belgium

    Ad Meskens

Bibliographic Information

Buy it now

Buying options

eBook USD 84.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book USD 109.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info
Hardcover Book USD 109.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access