logo

69 pages 2 hours read

The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions, and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Brian Greene

The Elegant Universe

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In The Elegant Universe, Brian Greene presents superstring theory as a potential unification of general relativity and quantum mechanics, exploring the foundational principles of physics, including Newtonian gravity, particle physics, and Einstein's relativity theories. Through accessible explanations, Greene delves into the history, development, and challenges of string theory, proposing it as a solution to modern physics' three major conflicts, and examining its implications on spacetime, black holes, and the universe's origins.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Challenging

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.4

102,866 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Brian Greene's The Elegant Universe masterfully explains complex topics like string theory and the fabric of space-time, making them accessible to a broad audience. While praised for its clarity and engaging prose, some readers find the intricate theories difficult to fully grasp. Overall, it's an enlightening read for those curious about modern physics.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Elegant Universe?

A reader who enjoys The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene likely has a keen interest in theoretical physics and cosmology. They appreciate complex scientific concepts explained in an accessible manner. Fans of Stephen Hawking's A Brief History of Time and Carl Sagan’s Cosmos would find this book equally captivating.

4.4

102,866 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Brian Greene

An American physicist and author celebrated for his work in superstring theory who strives to unify relativity and quantum mechanics, engaging both scientific and general audiences.

An American mathematician and theoretical physicist acknowledged as a pioneer in string theory and the father of M-theory, often regarded as a leading figure in contemporary physics.

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.