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The Compass, the Ruler and the Computer: An Analysis of the Design of the Amphitheatre of Pompeii

In: Architecture and Mathematics from Antiquity to the Future

Author

Listed:
  • Sylvie Duvernoy

    (Politecnico di Milano)

  • Paul L. Rosin

    (Cardiff University, School of Computer Science and Informatics)

Abstract

The present study demonstrates the complementarity of the two methodologies—analysis with modern digital tools, and classical simulation with ancient tools—in the case study of Roman amphitheatres. The geometrical analysis and the arithmetical analysis both converge to the same conclusion. Furthermore they corroborate the conclusions suggested by the numerical analysis with modern mathematics (i.e., the manipulation of computer science). Therefore, the coherence of the results coming from our different approaches allows us to assert that the geometrical pattern of Pompeii’s amphitheatre is a rare example of elliptic shape in architecture. Furthermore, its geometry and dimensions also show some of the finest evidence of direct application of the latest discoveries in mathematical knowledge and science in architectural design in classic antiquity.

Suggested Citation

  • Sylvie Duvernoy & Paul L. Rosin, 2015. "The Compass, the Ruler and the Computer: An Analysis of the Design of the Amphitheatre of Pompeii," Springer Books, in: Kim Williams & Michael J. Ostwald (ed.), Architecture and Mathematics from Antiquity to the Future, edition 127, chapter 0, pages 525-540, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-319-00143-2_36
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-00143-2_36
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