This book is devoted to the geometry and arithmetic of elliptic curves and to elliptic functions with applications to algebra and number theory. It includes modern interpretations of some famous classical algebraic theorems such as Abel's theorem on the lemniscate and Hermite's solution of the fifth degree equation by means of theta functions. Suitable as a text, the book is self-contained and assumes as prerequisites only the standard one-year courses of algebra and analysis.
Provides a great panoramic view for the beginner in the field. The style of writing is very cultured, with a sympathetic understanding and respect of the pioneering work of the old masters, and with a delightful sense of aesthetics and beauty. This book really breathes the charm and the fine art of the mathematics of Abel's era, and it is mainly this particular feature that makes the book under review fairly unique and highly valuable. Experts and teachers can benefit from the reading of this text likewise.
Zentralblatt f\"ur Mathematik