Liouville reflected on why the young mathematician had been rejected by his seniors and how his own efforts had resurrected Galois: As Descartes said, “When transcendental questions are under discussion be transcendentally clear.” Too often Galois neglected this precept; and we can understand how illustrious mathematicians may have judged it proper to try, by the harshness of their sage advice, to turn a beginner, full of genius but inexperienced, back on the right road. The author they censured was before them ardent, active; he could profit by their advice. But now everything is changed.
...more
