Algebraic curves are the graphs of polynomial equations in two vari￾ables, such as y3 + 5xy2 = x3 + 2xy. By focusing on curves of degree at
most 3-lines, conics, and cubics-this book aims to fill the gap between
the familiar subject of analytic geometry and the general study of alge￾braic curves. This text is designed for a one-semester class that serves
both as a a geometry course for mathematics majors in general and as a
sequel to college geometry for teachers of secondary school mathe￾matics. The only prerequisite is first-year calculus.