Euclid and Beauty

    The Elements is the foundation of western mathematical education. It is well-organized so readers even with no background in geometry can easily follow. Every geometric term is clearly defined in detail with concise language. In this way, the possible misunderstandings during the study of the book are minimized. Other than presenting geometric topics, the introduction of deductive reasoning from the book is also critical. The book gives great examples that record mathematical thinking processes. There are possible logical gaps in proving some propositions, yet readers of all time can learn from identifying these errors and thus become more engaged in the learning process.

    I believe there is beauty in the Euclidean postulates, common notions and principles for proofs. The methods of organizing a large amount of knowledge and the insights of proving tricky and tough statements are the forms of beauty in my perspective. The beauty of Euclid’s work also shows in its great impact on approaches to teaching. I agree with that “Euclid may not have been a first class mathematician but … the leading mathematics teacher of antiquity or perhaps of all time.” The book broadens math teachers’ horizons and every time looking at it, teachers could get new inspirations.