The space C(X) of all continuous functions on a compact space X carries the structure of a normed vector space, an algebra and a lattice. On the one hand we study the relations between these structures and the topology of X, on the other hand we discuss a number of classical results according to which an algebra or a vector lattice can be represented as a C(X). Various applications of these theorems are given.Some attention is devoted to related theorems, e.g. the Stone Theorem for Boolean algebras and the Riesz Representation Theorem.The book is functional analytic in character. It does not presuppose much knowledge of functional analysis; it contains introductions into subjects such as the weak topology, vector lattices and (some) integration theory.

When considering a mathematical theorem one ought not only to know how to prove it but also why and whether any given conditions are necessary. All too often little attention is paid to to this side of the theory and in writing this account of the theory of real functions the authors hope to rectify matters. They have put the classical theory of real functions in a modern setting and in so doing have made the mathematical reasoning rigorous and explored the theory in much greater depth than is customary. The subject matter is essentially the same as that of ordinary calculus course and the techniques used are elementary (no topology, measure theory or functional analysis). Thus anyone who is acquainted with elementary calculus and wishes to deepen their knowledge should read this.