Euclid Proposition 2

[Alm_Unclw]

Why is the given proof so complicated. Any line beginning at A drawn by compass with length BC is sufficient for the desired construction.

 

[Dr.Peterson]

Why is the given proof so complicated. Any line beginning at A drawn by compass with length BC is sufficient for the desired construction.

I suppose you're referring to Proposition I.2:

Euclid's Elements, Book I, Proposition 2

aleph0.clarku.edu

Read the comments there, which should at least partially answer your question.

 

[Alm_Unclw]

Why is the given proof so complicated. Any line beginning at A drawn by compass with length BC is sufficient for the desired construction.

Thank you

Thank you

Further reading states that Euclid did not allow a compass to transfer distance ("collapsing compass")

Further reading shows that Euclid did not allow the compass to be lifted to transfer distances ("collapsing compass").