Practical mathematics in a commercial metropolis: Mathematical life in late 16th century Antwerp

Ad Meskens

Springer | 2013 | 275 páginas | pdf | 13 Mb

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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.​

Contents
1 Preface.
2 Introduction.
3 The Family Coignet
4 Peeter Heyns and the Nymphs of the Laurel Tree.
5 The Arithmetic Teacher and his School
6 The Antwerp arithmetic books
7 Winegauging.
8 Instrumentmakers.
9 The Art of Navigation.
10 Mapping the World.
11 Looking towards the Stars
12 Ballistics and fortifications
13 Conclusion.