Online Archive of University of Virginia Scholarship
The numbers game : numeracy and the dissemination of knowledge in early modern England128 views
Author
Otis, Jessica Marie, Department of History, University of Virginia
Advisors
Halliday, Paul, AS-History (HIST), University of Virginia
Parshall, Karen, Corcoran Department of History, University of Virginia
Abstract
In early modem England, men and women utilized multiple numerical systems, ranging from oral systems of spoken words to written systems such as Arabic numerals. Men and women used these systems interchangeably, letting practical considerations inform their choice of system for any particular task. Although the written system of Arabic numerals was a relative latecomer to England, it became increasingly popular during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. English men and women's situational choices accepting or rejecting the new Arabic numerals therefore demonstrate some of the particular practical considerations and priorities associated with using each numerical system. These choices also indicate how early modem English men and women understood and obtained various forms of numeracy, through means both oral and written.
Degree
MA (Master of Arts)
Keywords
numeracy; arithmetic; early modern England
Language
English
Rights
All rights reserved (no additional license for public reuse)
Otis, Jessica Marie. The numbers game : numeracy and the dissemination of knowledge in early modern England. University of Virginia, Department of History, MA (Master of Arts), 2007-01-01, https://doi.org/10.18130/wjj4-1655.
