From the pyramids and the Parthenon to the Sydney Opera House
and the Bilbao Guggenheim, this book takes readers on an
eye-opening tour of the mathematics behind some of the world's most
spectacular buildings. Beautifully illustrated, the book explores
the milestones in elementary mathematics that enliven the
understanding of these buildings and combines this with an in-depth
look at their aesthetics, history, and structure. Whether using
trigonometry and vectors to explain why Gothic arches are
structurally superior to Roman arches, or showing how simple ruler
and compass constructions can produce sophisticated architectural
details, Alexander Hahn describes the points at which elementary
mathematics and architecture intersect.
Beginning in prehistoric times, Hahn proceeds to guide readers
through the Greek, Roman, Islamic, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance,
and modern styles. He explores the unique features of the Pantheon,
the Hagia Sophia, the Great Mosque of Cordoba, the Duomo in
Florence, Palladio's villas, and Saint Peter's Basilica, as well as
the U.S. Capitol Building. Hahn celebrates the forms and structures
of architecture made possible by mathematical achievements from
Greek geometry, the Hindu-Arabic number system, two- and
three-dimensional coordinate geometry, and calculus. Along the way,
Hahn introduces groundbreaking architects, including Brunelleschi,
Alberti, da Vinci, Bramante, Michelangelo, della Porta, Wren,
Gaudi, Saarinen, Utzon, and Gehry.
Rich in detail, this book takes readers on an expedition around
the globe, providing a deeper understanding of the mathematical
forces at play in the world's most elegant buildings."
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