A Tangled Tale

A Tangled Tale is a unique book that combines mathematics and literature. Written by Lewis Carroll, the renowned author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this book presents a series of mathematical puzzles and problems, cleverly disguised as short stories.

Recommended for: This book is perfect for those who enjoy mathematics, puzzles, and brain teasers. It is an excellent choice for readers who appreciate clever language and witty humor. While math enthusiasts will find the puzzles engaging, the book’s witty commentary and humorous remarks make it enjoyable for a broader audience.

You will:

Encounter a series of cleverly crafted mathematical puzzles, known as “knots”, that will challenge your problem-solving skills
Delight in the witty commentary and humorous remarks that accompany each puzzle
Be transported to a world of clever wordplay and linguistic trickery
Discover the ingenious ways in which Carroll uses language to present complex mathematical concepts
Appreciate the historical significance of this work, which showcases Carroll’s pioneering approach to mathematical education

Plot Summary

A Tangled Tale is a collection of short stories, each presenting a mathematical puzzle or problem. These “knots” are presented in a playful and humorous way, making the book an enjoyable read for those who may not typically enjoy mathematics. The stories feature a range of characters, including Clara and her aunt, Mad Mathesis, as well as two young boys, Hugh and Lambert, and their tutor, Balbus. As the stories unfold, readers are presented with mathematical challenges that require creative problem-solving skills.

Theme and Analysis

At its core, A Tangled Tale is a celebration of the beauty of mathematics. Carroll’s use of language and humor serves to demystify complex mathematical concepts, making them accessible to a wider audience. The book’s themes of creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking are timeless and universal. Through his clever use of language, Carroll encourages readers to think creatively and approach problems from multiple angles. The book’s historical significance lies in its pioneering approach to mathematical education, which emphasizes the importance of creativity and playfulness in learning.

Licensing

Lewis Carroll. A Tangled Tale. Originally published between 1880 and 1885. This work was published before January 1, 1929, and is in the public domain worldwide because the author died at least 100 years ago. This digital edition is provided by Standard Ebooks under the CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication License.