For the first several centuries of its existence, an education at the University of Oxford entailed a basic grounding in a range of different subjects, rather than the specialised study of a single discipline. The goal was to turn out well-rounded individuals rather than narrow experts.  Nevertheless, the university often tried, wherever possible, to provide advanced instruction in specific areas for those students who were interested. 

When we needed a design for our Oxford Mathematics merchandise, we thought we didn't have a badge or coat of arms. Until we realised we did. At the entrance to our building is the Penrose tiling, our mathematical coat of arms.

So our designers, the excellent Stephane Harrison and his team at William Joseph, came up with the idea of the exploding tiles. They have now become our unofficial logo (if you can have such a thing), on all our merchandise and materials.

In this Oxford Mathematics Public Lecture, Sarah will explore the many connections between mathematics and literature. She'll show the hidden mathematical structures behind everything from poetry to novels, and reveal some of the beautiful mathematical imagery and symbolism in fiction, from simple fairy tales to classics like Moby-Dick. Her goal is to show that not only are mathematics and literature inextricably linked, but that understanding these links can enhance our enjoyment of both.