The Gnomon of Zhou: A Mathematical Classic

The Gnomon of Zhou is China's oldest mathematical and astronomical text, with an early proof of the right-angle theorem. It explains the measurement of the sun's shadow, the size of heaven and earth and the calendar in dialogues between the Duke of Zhou and Shang Gao. This is a complete new English translation, with names in modern pinyin and the text rendered as plain, readable English prose. It is a primary source for anyone curious about how early China measured the world and the human body. Clear and surprisingly readable, it shows the questions, methods and ideas that shaped Chinese science and medicine for two thousand years. It is an ideal book for curious readers who want to explore Chinese literature and thought beyond the few famous titles, in a clear modern English version.