1912 Manuscript on the Special Theory of Relativity

This magnificent, large-scale volume presents in facsimile form one of the most revolutionary and influential scientific documents of the twentieth century: Albert Einstein's exposition of the theory of relativity. Each of the seventy-two handwritten pages is faithfully reproduced to actual size and accompanied by an English translation of the original German text. A tribute to Einstein's genius, Einstein's 1912 Manuscript on the Special Theory of Relativity: A Facsimile opens with brief accounts of thoughts and reminiscences by Einstein's friends and colleagues. To introduce the facsimile, a detailed description of the manuscript, its contents, publication history and provenance are provided. The facsimile then follows, with an English translation facing each page. No effort was spared in achieving the highest fidelity possible in the reproduction of the manuscript pages. Subtle variations in paper and ink are clearly visible, indicating where and when Einstein drafted certain parts of the manuscript. Because it shows extensive reworking, it reveals Einstein's thought processes more than any other of his handwritten works. His frequent alterations also reflect his concern for style and his groping for the right expression. In these pages, if only for a fleeting moment, Einstein's towering genius seems a little more akin to us.