Algebraic Geometry is a fascinating branch of Mathematics that combines methods from both Algebra and Geometry. It transcends the limited scope of pure Algebra by means of geometric construction principles. Putting forward this idea, Grothendieck revolutionized Algebraic Geometry in the late 1950s by inventing schemes. Schemes now also play an important role in Algebraic Number Theory, a field that used to be far away from Geometry. The new point of view paved the way for spectacular progress, such as the proof of Fermat's Last Theorem by Wiles and Taylor.

This book explains the...