A quick history of ancient mathematics and mathematical ideas

Course Programme

Session timings are below.

Please plan to arrive online shortly before each session is due to begin.

Friday 6  November, 6.30pm: The discovery of proof, maths in the service of knowing the world, an answer to Parmenides?

Saturday 7 November, 6.30pm: Zeno, starting points, non-co-measurables, 5th century crisis and no Pythagoras!

Sunday 8 November, 6.30pm: Plato: true reality is like mathematics, knowledge from reason vs. knowledge from senses; Aristotle on mathematics

Monday 9 November, 6.30pm: Eudoxus: curves, astronomy and non-co-measurables tamed

Tuesday 10 November, 6.30pm: Euclid: the Elements is the answer to what question?

Wednesday 11 November, 6.30pm: Archimedes and curves, mathematics and engineering, Heron to Hagia Sophia

Thursday 12 November, 6.30pm: Mathematical astronomy: what do we actually know?

Additional requirements

ICE is committed to providing equality of opportunity and to a proactive and inclusive approach to equality. We aim to support and encourage under-represented groups, promote an inclusive culture, and value diversity.
Further information about student support.

Course materials

A book list, course syllabus and detailed timetable are circulated as far as possible in advance of a course. You will receive these documents by email if you have provided us with your email address; please check your spam folder if you have not received these documents.

You can also download material from the Documents section at the bottom of this page.

Fees

Fees for remote-study courses cover the course tuition for all remote sessions. VAT does not apply to course fees and there is no service charge. Payment is by credit/debit card unless otherwise arranged and is taken in full at the time of booking.

Cancellations

You may cancel a course booking at any time. After the 14 day cancellation period has expired, the standard ICE course cancellation policy will apply. Please view our refund and cancellation policy for further details.

Bursaries

The Cambridge University Press (CUP) Bursary Fund offers a bursary of 50% of the course fee to applicants who teach in a UK state school or state-funded further education institution, applying to study a day school, weekend course or online course.

What you will need

The course is open to anyone, however it is taught via a virtual classroom. You will be able to see, hear and interact with your classmates and the tutor. In order to participate you will need to have a laptop, computer, tablet or other device equipped with a camera (webcam), speakers and a microphone. 

Full instructions and support on the use of the software will be given on request.