This is the second book of a six volume edition of the complete correspondence of one of the leading figures in the scientific revolution of the 17th century, the Oxford mathematician and theologian John Wallis (1616-1703). It covers the period 1660 to September 1668 and thus some of the most decisive years of political and scientific reorganization in England during that century. The volume begins shortly before the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 and witnesses the emergence of the Royal Society from scientific circles, which had existed earlier in London and Oxford. Wallis's involvement ... More

This is the second book of a six volume edition of the complete correspondence of one of the leading figures in the scientific revolution of the 17th century, the Oxford mathematician and theologian John Wallis (1616-1703). It covers the period 1660 to September 1668 and thus some of the most decisive years of political and scientific reorganization in England during that century. The volume begins shortly before the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 and witnesses the emergence of the Royal Society from scientific circles, which had existed earlier in London and Oxford. Wallis's involvement in the Royal Society stretches back to its beginnings. After its official establishment, he became one of its most active members, corresponding regularly with its secretary Henry Oldenburg and attending meetings whenever he was in London. Wallis contributed extensively to contemporary scientific debate both in England and on the continent, and many of his letters to Oldenburg on mathematical and physical topics were edited and published in the journal Philosophical Transactions to this purpose. The correspondence contained in the volume, much of which is previously unpublished, throws new light on the background to the scientific revolution and on university politics during this time. As Keeper of the Archives, Wallis was often called upon to prepare papers aimed at defending the University of Oxford's ancient rights and privileges, and was also required to spend a considerable amount of his time in London. To this extent, at least his university commitments and scientific interests were able to go hand-in-hand.