Remember 9th Grade Geometry?

Geometry: An area of mathematics far more interesting than calculating angles and deriving proofs.

WEDNESDAY:
As usual, our group ate a satisfying breakfast at the Nova Cafe. We then got to visit the Museo Nacional de Arquelogia, Antropolgia, e Historia de Peru as well as Museo Larco. Both museums contained an incredible amount of information on ancient Peruvian societies and noteworthy data of the involvement of mathematics within each culture. With Dr. Brown's assistance, we were able to indicate particular geometric patterns within an individual culture's textiles, metalwork, and ceramics.

Museo Larco (Wednesday June 10, 2015)

Though it is only the beginning of this course, it is interesting to note that I am now finding myself examining architectural designs for symmetrical patterns. Is the mural on the side of that building able to rotate by 90 degree turns? Do the patterns on this wrapper contain reflections? Does the design on this sidewalk have translation symmetry?  

Indeed it does (Thursday June 11, 2015)

The ancient Peruvian cultures seemed to be experts on such geometric ideas. Through lineal designs such as those of felines, birds, and serpents, the Museo Nacional de Arquelogia, Antropolgia, e Historia de Peru and Museo Larco proved these cultures to have a significant grasp on mathematical concepts. Decoding their understandings of geometry by observing body ornaments given to those of high social status was particularly interesting to me. Not only because of the noticeable mathematics behind each ear, mouth, and nose piece, but because of the ponder-worthy reasoning behind each particular design.

Museo Larco (Wednesday June 10, 2015)

 On a non-mathematical note, my genuine fondness of Peru is growing with each day that I am here. The civilians, restaurants, historical sights, and fellow travelers make this study abroad trip far more exciting than I could have imagined. 

Fellow roomie (Tuesday June 10, 2015)