Isaac Newton, adventurer in thought /

This "account of the greatest mind in British history" is "chiefly directed to Newton the mathematician and philosopher." One of the leading Newtonian scholars of our time, Hall provides stimulating and up-to-date summaries of recent research on Newton's contributions to mathematics, optics, and mechanics. More briefly covered is Newton's work in alchemy--which Hall sometimes writes "(al)chemy" to emphasize his contention that at least some of Newton's researches in this area can be considered clear anticipations of modern chemistry. Newton's scholarly preoccupation with biblical history and theology is also briefly but insightfully discussed. Written in short, titled sections in a straightforward style, the book reads easily and yet never unduly modernizes or simplifies its subject matter. Illustrated with figures but no pictures, not even a portrait of Newton (except on the endpapers), even though there is a detailed appendix on Newton's portraits. Short but useful bibliography and good index. Highly recommended. General; advanced undergraduate through professional. R. Palter; emeritus, Trinity College (CT)