Histroy of the Calculus of Variations

Whilst the greatest effort has been made to ensure the quality of this text, due to the historical nature of this content, in some rare cases there may be minor issues with legibility. Caias College, Cambridge. This work details the history of the Calculus of Variations from its origin until the close of the eighteenth century, and has obtained a high reputation for accuracy and clearness. During the present century some of the most eminent mathematicians have endeavoured to enlarge the boundaries of the subject, and it seemed probable that a survey of What had been accomplished would not be destitute of interest and value. Accord ingly the present work has been undertaken, and a short account will now be given of its plan.