A mathematical poetry book from Nepal. Issue 3 (1st September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Basyal, Deepak
• Is Part Of: British journal for the history of mathematics. Volume 35:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 189
• Page End: 206
• Publication Date: 2020-09-01
• Subjects: Mathematics -- History -- Periodicals; Mathematics; History; Periodicals; Periodicals; 510.9
• DOI: 10.1080/26375451.2020.1777781
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2637-5451

Abstract

Abstract : The Rana regime (1846–1951) in Nepal is widely known for its lack of support for public education and its notorious opposition to women's rights. Near the end of that regime, a mathematical textbook composed in the form of poetic verses was published in the Nepali language, purportedly written by a female author. This article explores the provenance, presentation style, authorship mystery, and unique mathematical content of this book. Furthermore, we explore how mathematical problems may reveal socio-cultural aspects of a country, and how original historical sources such as the one examined in this paper can be useful in the teaching and learning of mathematics today.