The Mathematical Work of Evariste Galois

Abstract

Evariste Galois’ contribution to mathematics may, at first sight, not appear to be very substantial, if we limit ourselves to merely counting the approximately 100 pages of his extant work. It is the implications they contain for further development that mark their far-reaching importance and originality. Galois’ fragmentary and densely synthetic writings are particularly difficult to read, to the extent that some passages still await a wholly satisfactory interpretation. Only five of Galois’ papers were published during his lifetime, the rest being published after his untimely death. Undoubtedly the best way of presenting Galois’ work is to follow the author’s own subdivision to be found in the letter to Auguste Chevalier, written on 29 May 1832.