Description
Book SynopsisDr Smithies analyses the process whereby Cauchy created one of the most important branch of mathematics discovered in the nineteenth century. It is the first book to make use of the whole spectrum of available original sources, and will be recognised as the authoritative work on the creation of complex function theory.
Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: 'This exemplary book is the first thorough and comprehensive presentation of Cauchy's creation between 1814 and 1831, of complex function theory … the papers form a diary that testifies to the gradual development of a new field in the mind of an outstanding mathematician.' D. Laugwitz, Darmstadt
Review of the hardback: ' … an invaluable guide to anyone interested in the work of a great mathematician'. Jeremy Gray, The Open University
Review of the hardback: 'This book is a welcome contribution to the history of mathematical ideas. It is carefully written … in the case of a great mathematician of the first half of the nineteenth century, it is very useful to have a book analyzing his ideas. Smithie's book helps us understand the technical achievements of Cauchy in founding the theory of complex functions.' The Mathematical Gazette
Review of the hardback: '… new light is thrown on Cauchy's thinking.' L'Enseignment Mathématique
Review of the hardback: '… a unique source not only for the historians of mathematics but to all who are fascinated by the beauty of the complex function theory.' European Mathematical Society
Table of Contents1. Introduction; 2. The background to Cauchy's work on complex function theory; 3. Cauchy's 1814 memoir on definite integrals; 4. Miscellaneous contributions (1815–1825); 5. The 1825 memoir and associated papers; 6. The calculus of residues; 7. The Lagrange series and the Turin memoirs; 8. Summary and conclusions; References.
