a Vector Space Geometry

This book on linear algebra and geometry is based on a course given by renowned academician I.R. Shafarevich at Moscow State University.

Written as a supplement to Marcel Berger’s popular two-volume set, Geometry I and II (Universitext), this book offers a comprehensive range of exercises, problems, and full solutions. Each chapter corresponds directly to one in the relevant volume, from which it also provides a summary of key ideas.

This book focuses on the study of the volume of vector fields on Riemannian manifolds. Providing a thorough overview of research on vector fields defining minimal submanifolds, and on the existence and characterization of volume minimizers, it includes proofs of the most significant results obtained since the subject’s introduction in 1986. Aiming to inspire further research, it also highlights a selection of intriguing open problems, and exhibits some previously unpublished results. The presentation is direct and deviates substantially from the usual approaches found in the literature, requiring a significant revision of definitions, statements, and proofs.

A powerful introduction to one of the most active areas of theoretical and applied mathematics.