Medieval Mathematics and Mathematicians

The medieval period was a period of gradual mathematical development. In other ways it was a period of great philosophical shifts, not so much on the surface as the Roman Church dominated much of philosophy and all of religion but underneath, the old Aristotelian views began to erode. Though it would dominate education for many more centuries, certain notions began to be be admitted. Most particularly, we see a lively discussion of the infinite, actual and potential.

The rise of the mercantile class required mathematical training, if only for finance. A subculture of mathematicians were needed to train the sons of the wealthy merchants.

	Goals
	Readings
	Problems

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