Numbering and Measuring in the Ancient World: An Introductory Handbook (Greek and Latin Language) - Softcover

Richardson, W.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1853993263 ISBN 13: 9781853993268

Publisher: Cost of Conscience, 1998

Synopsis

This volume introduces the reader to Greek and Roman ways of expressing numbers, weights and measures. These are matters often relegated to footnotes or an appendix. Yet the words, the symbols and the calculations used in the classical world have an interest in themselves and often reveal unexpected facets of the culture that employed them. The subject can be complex but this book seeks to cut it to the essentials and to avoid the aridity of larger, more technical treatments. It offers a fluid and readable text, liberally enhanced with tables and specific examples. Chapters cover the cardinal numbers, other number words, inclusive reckoning, symbols, fractions, simple arithmetic, linear measurements, measuring area and volume, measuring weight, capacity and value; financial matters; sizes of pipes and nozzles; measuring time. It is quite simply an indispensable point of reference for every student of classical culture or of ancient texts.

About this title

Review

.".. it more than covers a very complex and obscure series of topics. ... The book will be of use to any student or scholar of classical antiquity; it is a short, excellent introduction to a highly technical subject..."--Bryn Mawr Classical Review

.".. this practical and readable book ..."--The Journal of Classics Teaching

..". it more than covers a very complex and obscure series of topics. ... The book will be of use to any student or scholar of classical antiquity; it is a short, excellent introduction to a highly technical subject..."--Bryn Mawr Classical Review

..". this practical and readable book ..."--The Journal of Classics Teaching

For any serious student of classical literature or documents, this book will provide an instantly useful reference point on any matters of numbering and measuring...'--Mr. Ray Huntley"The Higher Education Academy" (07/01/2006)

About the Author

The late William F. Richardson was Honorary Research fellow in the University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cost of Conscience
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 1853993263
• ISBN 13: 9781853993268
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 64