Galois Theory and Its Algebraic Background

Galois Theory is the theory of polynomial equations and their solutions. Suitable for course-following undergraduates and the independent reader, this textbook gives a full account of Galois Theory and the necessary background algebra. This second edition has been revised and re-ordered, with new exercises and examples throughout.

Galois Theory, the theory of polynomial equations and their solutions, is one of the most fascinating and beautiful subjects of pure mathematics. Using group theory and field theory, it provides a complete answer to the problem of the solubility of polynomial equations by radicals: that is, determining when and how a polynomial equation can be solved by repeatedly extracting roots using elementary algebraic operations. This textbook contains a fully detailed account of Galois Theory and the algebra that it needs and is suitable both for those following a course of lectures and the independent reader (who is assumed to have no previous knowledge of Galois Theory). The second edition has been significantly revised and re-ordered; the first part develops the basic algebra that is needed, and the second a comprehensive account of Galois Theory. There are applications to ruler-and- compass constructions, and to the solution of classical mathematical problems of ancient times. There are new exercises throughout, and carefully-selected examples will help the reader develop a clear understanding of the mathematical theory.