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History of Mathematics from Antiquity to 17th Century : Magnitudes, Numbers and Equations
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:07:31
Abstract
Far from being fixed and timeless notions, magnitudes, numbers and equations are three objects that were conceived by mathematicians in a -sometimes radically- different way, and that were influenced by their historical context. The course analyses the evolution of these objects from Greek Antiquity to the beginning of 17th century, via Arabic and Latin Middle Age, and the Italian Renaissance.
Objective
The course aims are: - to introduce students to the historical dimension of mathematics; - to develop a critical understanding of mathematical notions; - to have a general idea of the history of mathematics until 17th century; - to acquire skills in order to read and comment mathematical texts written in the past ages and in different cultures.
Content
After a methodological introduction to the history of mathematics, we analyse texts written by mathematicians such as Euclid, al-Khwarizmi, al-Khayyam, Fibonacci, Cardano, Stifel, Descartes. The aim is to understand what magnitudes, numbers and equations are for these scholars. Students are also led to consider: - the cultural and sociological consequences of the invention of the printed book; - the history of the classification of mathematical sciences; - the history of the scientific institutions.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 73
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | History of Mathematics from Antiquity to 17th Century : Magnitudes, Numbers and Equations |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
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Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )