This delightful book provides surprising examples of Shakespeare’s references in his sonnets and plays to new discoveries in mathematics and science that were occurring at the end of the 16th century. The Hindu-Arabic numeration system was just beginning to replace the use of Roman numerals in England, and Galileo’s telescope had produced evidence to challenge long held fallacies about our solar system. The book takes the reader on an excursion into literature, history, currency, measurement, music and astronomy of the time—all at once. It offers an excellent opportunity for secondary school mathematics, science, and English teachers to collaborate on Shakespeare and mathematics. – Michael Shaughnessy, Mathical Selection Committee
Shakespeare’s era was abuzz with mathematical progress, from the new concept of “zero” to Galileo’s redraft of the heavens. Now, Rob Eastaway uncovers the many surprising ways math shaped Shakespeare’s plays—and his world—touring astronomy, code-breaking, color theory, navigation, music, sports, and more.
– Book description from publisher