A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra: From the Integers to the Insolvability of the Quintic

A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra: From the Integers to the Insolvability of the Quintic by Bergen, Jeffrey. Hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780123749413.

A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra presents a solid and highly accessible introduction to abstract algebra by providing details on the building blocks of abstract algebra. It begins with a concrete and thorough examination of familiar objects such as integers, rational numbers, real numbers, complex numbers, complex conjugation, and polynomials. The author then builds upon these familiar objects and uses them to introduce and motivate advanced concepts in algebra in a manner that is easier to understand for most students. Exercises provide a balanced blend of difficulty levels, while the quantity allows the instructor a latitude of choices. The final four chapters present the more theoretical material needed for graduate study. This text will be of particular interest to teachers and future teachers as it links abstract algebra to many topics which arise in courses in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, and calculus.