Curiosa mathematica, Part 1 : A new theory of parallels

audiobook

Curiosa mathematica, Part 1 : A new theory of parallels

by Lewis Carroll

EN·~2 hours·12 chapters

Chapters

12 total

A NEW THEORY OF PARALLELS

0:15

Curiosa Mathematica

0:18

PREFACE TO THIRD EDITION.

10:00

INTRODUCTION.

23:14

A NEW THEORY OF PARALLELS. Book I.

11:50

Book II.

15:57

APPENDICES TO PART I.

0:01

APPENDIX I.

8:05

APPENDIX II.

33:26

APPENDIX III.

3:48
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Description

In this surprisingly lively mathematics treatise, the author challenges the ancient foundations of Euclidean geometry by proposing a fresh axiom about inscribed shapes. Using the simple construction of an equilateral tetragon within a circle, he demonstrates how the familiar parallel postulate can be approached without invoking Euclid’s notorious twelfth axiom. The book balances rigorous proof with witty asides, making abstract reasoning feel almost conversational.

Readers are guided through two distinct sections: the first presents propositions that require no extra assumptions, while the second builds on the new axiom to tackle classic theorems about angles and triangles. Along the way, the author engages in a playful “dialogue with Nature,” defending his hypotheses with both logic and humor. The work invites anyone with a curiosity for geometry to glimpse how a single change in foundational thinking can open a whole new landscape of mathematical possibilities.

Details

Language

en

Duration

~2 hours (127K characters)

Release date

May 2, 2026

Rights

Public domain in the USA.

About the author

Lewis Carroll

Lewis Carroll

1832–1898

Best known for the Alice books, this Victorian writer mixed playful nonsense with a sharp mathematical mind. His stories still feel fresh because they balance dreamlike fantasy, logic puzzles, and a delight in language.

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