Récréations mathématiques

work by Leurechon

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July 13, 2026

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R\u00e9cr\u00e9ations math\u00e9matiques is a significant work by Jean Leurechon, published in 1624 under the pseudonym van Etten. This book was highly popular, with at least 30 editions before 1700. While it drew heavily from Claude-Gaspar Bachet de M\u00e9ziriac's earlier work, it also included some original problems and served as a model for subsequent collections of mathematical recreations.1

Mathematical recreations, in general, are puzzles and games that incorporate mathematical principles. These can range from simple amusements to complex problems, utilizing various branches of mathematics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number theory. The appeal of these problems is universal, engaging people of all ages and backgrounds in intellectual challenges.2

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Pioneers and imitators
…name of van Etten, published Récréations mathématiques. This volume struck the popular fancy, passing through at least 30 editions before 1700, despite the fact that it was based largely on the work of Bachet, from whom he took the simpler problems, disregarding the more significant portions. Yet it did contain…
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…name of van Etten, published Récréations mathématiques. This volume struck the popular fancy, passing through at least 30 editions before 1700, despite the fact that it was based largely on the work of Bachet, from whom he took the simpler problems, disregarding the more significant portions. Yet it did contain…
Read More