Anonymous
Posted January 8, 2005
This book by Shilov covers the fundamentals in beginning analysis(both real and complex). It has in common with Walter Rudin's book (entitled 'Real and Complex Analysis') that it covers both real functions (integration theory and more), as well as Cauchy's theorems for analytic functions. Shilov's book is at an undergraduate level, and it can easily be used for self-study. The Dover edition is affordable. Rudin's book is for the beginning graduate level, and it is widely used in math departments around the world. Both books have stood the test of time. Comparison of Shilov with Rudin: Rudin's 'Real and Complex' has become an institution, and I have to admit I have loved it since I was a student myself, but conventional wisdom will have it that Shilov is a lot gentler on students, and much easier to get started with: It stresses motivation a bit more, the exercises are easier (some of Rudin's exercises are notorious, but I find the challenge charming--not all of my students do though!), and finally Shilov gets to touch upon a few applications; fashionable these days. But that part easily gets dated. I will expect that beginning students will enjoy Shilov's book. Personally, I find that with perseverance, students who keep at it with Rudin's book, will end up with a lot stronger foundation. They are more likely to have proofs in their blood. I guess Shilov can always serve as a leisurely supplementary reading to Rudin. There will never be another book like Rudin's 'Real and Complex', just like there will never be another van Gogh. But the fact that we love van Gogh doesn't prevent us from enjoying other paintings.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.
More About This Textbook
Overview
Excellent undergraduate-level text offers coverage of real numbers, sets, metric spaces, limits, continuous functions, series, the derivative, higher derivatives, the integral and more. Each chapter contains a problem set (hints and answers at the end), while a wealth of examples and applications are found throughout the text. Over 340 theorems fully proved. 1973 edition.
Editorial Reviews
Booknews
**** Reprint of the MIT Press original of 1974 (which is honored by inclusion in BCL3. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)Product Details
Related Subjects