Edwin Abbott

Easton Press Edwin Abbott books

Flatland A Romance of Many Dimensions - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1995 

 

 

Edwin Abbott biography

Edwin Abbott Abbott, born on December 20, 1838, in Marylebone, London, was an English clergyman, schoolmaster, theologian, and writer. He is best known for his satirical novella Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions, published in 1884. Abbott began his education at the City of London School and later attended St John's College, Cambridge, where he excelled in mathematics. He graduated in 1861 and went on to become a fellow at his alma mater. Abbott was ordained as a Church of England priest in 1862, and he served as headmaster at the City of London School from 1865 to 1889.

While Abbott's career in education and the clergy was notable, he achieved enduring fame through his work in the realm of literature. Flatland, written under the pseudonym A Square, is a unique and imaginative exploration of geometric dimensions. The novella is set in a two-dimensional world inhabited by geometric shapes, each with its own social hierarchy. Through the protagonist, A Square, Abbott satirizes Victorian society and offers commentary on the limitations of perception and understanding.

Flatland gained recognition for its creative approach to mathematical concepts and its clever use of satire to address social issues. Over the years, the novella has become a classic in the realms of mathematics, science fiction, and philosophical literature. Aside from Flatland, Abbott also wrote extensively on theological and educational topics. His other works include Philomythus (1891), How to Write Clearly (1883), and various theological essays.

Edwin Abbott Abbott passed away on October 12, 1926, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate readers and scholars interested in the intersection of literature, mathematics, and social commentary. His contributions to both education and literature have ensured his lasting impact in these fields.

What were Edwin A. Abbott's views on Christianity?

While Abbott's views on Christianity may not be extensively documented, he was known for his engagement with theological and philosophical topics. Abbott was associated with the Church of England, and his writings often reflected a deep interest in religious and moral questions. However, it's important to note that Flatland itself is primarily a work of mathematical and philosophical satire rather than a theological treatise.

 

 

Flatland A Romance of Many Dimensions

Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions takes readers on an extraordinary journey through a world unlike any other. This timeless classic transports us to a two-dimensional realm inhabited by geometric shapes, where hierarchy is dictated by the number of sides one possesses. Follow the adventures of A. Square, our intrepid protagonist, as he grapples with the limitations of his reality and explores the mysterious realms beyond. As A. Square encounters beings from higher dimensions and navigates the intricacies of societal structure, readers are treated to a profound exploration of geometry, philosophy, and social satire. Abbott's groundbreaking work challenges our perceptions of space, identity, and the nature of existence, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of literature and mathematics. Flatland is a mesmerizing tale that continues to captivate readers with its boundless imagination and profound insights into the fabric of the universe.