53 pages • 1 hour read
Robert KanigelThe Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1991A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Man Who Knew Infinity by Robert Kanigel traces the life of Indian mathematician Srinivāsa Ramanujan from his humble beginnings and early display of exceptional talent to his groundbreaking collaboration with Cambridge mathematician G. H. Hardy. Despite numerous personal and cultural obstacles, Ramanujan produced pioneering work that significantly impacted mathematics. The book also highlights the critical role of Hardy in Ramanujan's journey and their extraordinary partnership. Themes of illness, cultural displacement, and colonialism are present.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Robert Kanigel’s The Man Who Knew Infinity is widely praised for its thorough and engaging portrayal of mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Reviewers commend Kanigel’s ability to blend complex mathematical concepts with a compelling narrative. Criticisms include occasional overly detailed passages and a focus that sometimes drifts from Ramanujan to his mentor, G.H. Hardy.
Who Should Read The Man Who Knew Infinity?
Readers who enjoy biographies of brilliant minds and underdog stories, particularly those with a deep appreciation for mathematics and history, will find The Man Who Knew Infinity by Robert Kanigel captivating. Similar to A Beautiful Mind, it explores the life of a genius whose work left a lasting legacy.
RecommendedReading Age
16+yearsBook Details
Science / Nature
History: World
Depression / Suicide
Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance
Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness
Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality
Indian Literature
Biography