A Mathematical Journey Through Literature
Mathematics is often called the language of the universe, and is our tool to understand the hidden structures and patterns of nature. Our forms of creative expression also have inherently beautiful pattern and structure. In this talk I’ll focus on the compelling and profound connections between mathematics and literature, explore the hidden mathematical structures behind everything from poetry to novels, and see some of the beautiful mathematical imagery and symbolism in fiction, from simple fairy tales to classics like Moby-Dick. I will show that mathematics and literature are inextricably linked, and understanding these links enhances our enjoyment of both.
223rd Lecture Series Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow
Date: Wednesday 19 February 2025
Time: 19:30 - 21:00
Venue: Charles Wilson Building, Lecture Theatre 201
Category: Public lectures
Speaker: Professor Sarah Hart, Birkbeck College
Mathematics is often called the language of the universe, and is our tool to understand the hidden structures and patterns of nature. Our forms of creative expression also have inherently beautiful pattern and structure. In this talk I’ll focus on the compelling and profound connections between mathematics and literature. We’ll explore the hidden mathematical structures behind everything from poetry to novels, and see some of the beautiful mathematical imagery and symbolism in fiction, from simple fairy tales to classics like Moby-Dick. I will show that mathematics and literature are inextricably linked, and understanding these links enhances our enjoyment of both.
Sarah Hart is a mathematician and author of Once Upon a Prime: the Wondrous Connections between Mathematics and Literature. She is Professor Emerita of Mathematics at Birkbeck College (University of London), and has recently served a four-year term as Gresham Professor of Geometry, the first woman to hold this chair since its inception in 1597.