Primes of the form x^2 + ny^2

David A. Cox0471190799, 9780471190790

Provides a general solution to the question of which primes p can be expressed in the form x² + ny². Covered first are the special cases considered by Fermat, which involve only quadratic reciprocity and the genus theory of quadratic forms. Further, the book shows how the results of Euler and Gauss can be fully understood only in the context of class field theory. Finally, in order to bring class field theory down to earth, the book explores some of the mignificent formulas of complex multiplication.