Squaring the Circle: Geometry in Art and Architecture

Paul A. Calter
Professor of Mathematics Emeritus, Vermont Technical College
Visiting Scholar, Dartmouth College

A dynamic branch of mathematics, geometry also serves as a creative tool for engineers, artists, and architects. Squaring the Circle: Geometry in Art and Architecture is the first textbook to cover both art and geometry extensively. The text’s wide-ranging exercise sets and related projects allow students to practice and master the mathematics presented. Each chapter introduces mathematical concepts geometrically and illustrates their nontraditional applications in art and architecture throughout the centuries.

Author Paul A. Calter developed this book as part of the NSF-funded Mathematics Across the Curriculum project at Dartmouth College. This text is appropriate for both basic mathematics courses and cross-discipline courses in mathematics and art. Students should have a basic knowledge of algebra, and the level of the geometry is roughly at the college algebra level; no calculus is required.

Each new copy of Squaring the Circle comes with an access code for password-protected online resources, including full-color images for in-class lectures or presentations, or for self-study; answers to selected exercises; links to related sites; teaching tips; and more.

Distinctive Features

• The text’s wealth of fine art and illustrations engages students who are visual learners; at the same time, it provides extensive definitions and examples that appeal to students who are more mathematically oriented.
• Each chapter contains numerous exercises and projects. Some of the exercises consist of simple computations, while others require in-depth research and can work as semester-long projects.
• The text emphasizes constructions, encouraging students to develop geometric skills using Euclid’s tools—the compass and straightedge.
• The author also acknowledges that progress has been made since Euclid’s time, so constructions can be made using The Geometer’s Sketchpad^® or other commonly used geometry software*.
• Biographical profiles spotlight historical figures in mathematics, art, and architecture.
• Fully worked Examples and accompanying practice Exercises are included in each chapter.
• The text’s rich appendix contains indexes to historical figures and locations, geometric constructions and formulas, and a complete bibliography.

COMPLIMENTARY EXAMINATION COPIES for this very popular title will be strictly limited to those who currently teach a geometry or mathematics course specifically for art, design, industrial arts, architecture, or other fine arts students. We recommend that other faculty purchase the title for their professional libraries. Please purchase your professional/reference copy for only $89.95 directly from Key, or through your local bookstore by special order.

Contents

1. Music of the Spheres
2. The Golden Ratio
3. The Triangle
4. Ad Quadratum and the Sacred Cut
5. Polygons, Tilings, and Sacred Geometry
6. The Circle
7. Circular Designs in Architecture
8. Squaring the Circle
9. The Ellipse and the Spiral
10. The Solids
11. The Sphere and Celestial Themes in Art and Architecture
12. Brunelleschi’s Peepshow and the Origins of Perspective
13. Fractals

*Among other resources, files are provided at our free online Instructor and Student Resource Centers at: www.keycollege.com/online. These files are for optional use with The Geometer’s Sketchpad®, and are not necessary for understanding the content of Squaring the Circle. Legal access to The Geometer’s Sketchpad® Dynamic Geometry® Software is required in order to open and use these files. We believe their use with Sketchpad™ will enhance understanding of the material in the text.

Students and faculty may use Sketchpad from their institution’s computer lab (if the institution is a licensed site), or may purchase either the professional Single User Package of Sketchpad, or the Student Edition of Sketchpad. These products may be ordered directly online from Key Curriculum Press or through your college bookstore.