This book is an introduction to the theory of knots via the theory of braids, which attempts to be complete in a number of ways. Some knowledge of Topology is assumed. Necessary Group Theory and further necessary Topology are given in the book. The exposition is intended to enable an interested reader to learn the basics of the subject. Emphasis is placed on covering the theory in an algebraic way. The work includes quite a number of worked examples. The latter part of the book is devoted to previously unpublished material.

Includes bibliographical references (289-292) and index.

Print version record.

Some necessary group theory -- Some necessary topology -- Knots and pictures of knots -- Braids and the braid group -- Some connections between braids and links -- The group of a link -- Group rings -- Derivatives -- Alexander matrices -- Elementary ideal of Alexander matrix -- Alexander polynomial of a knot -- Alexander polynomial of a link -- Some matrix representations of the braid group -- Operations on braids and resulting links -- The group of a free endomorphism -- Alexander polynomials revisited -- Meridians and longitudes -- Symmetry of Alexander matrices of knots -- Symmetry of Alexander matrices of links -- Conjugacy of group automorphisms -- Plait representations of links -- A list of links.

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