An edition of Euclid in China (1998)
Euclid in China
the genesis of the first Chinese translation of Euclid's Elements, books I-VI (Jihe yuanben, Beijing, 1607) and its reception up to 1723
By Peter M. Engelfriet
Publish Date
1998
Publisher
Brill
Language
eng
Pages
488
Description:
As part of the Jesuits' programme of introduction to European culture, in 1607 the Elements of Euclid (d.300 B C) were translated for the first time into Chinese. The translation of this epoch-making ancient Greek textbook on deductive geometry meant a confrontation of contemporary Chinese and European cultures. This work explores in depth and at various levels the circumstances and mechanisms that shaped the transmission of a key work of science from one language and cultural context onto another. Consequently it offers often surprising insights into the ways of intercultural exchange and misunderstandings.
subjects: Geometry, Early works to 1800, History, Geometry, early works to 1800, Geometry, history
People: Euclid
Places: China
Times: 17th century