Miscellanea Mathematica

Mathematics has a certain mystique, for it is pure and ex-
act, yet demands remarkable creativity. This reputation is
reinforced by its characteristic abstraction and its own in-
dividual language, which often disguise its origins in and
connections with the physical world.
Publishing mathematics, therefore, requires special effort
and talent.
Heinz G|tze,who has dedicated his life to scientific pu-
blishing, took up this challenge with his typical enthusi-
asm. This Festschrift celebrates his invaluable contribu-
tions to the mathematical community, many of whose leading
members he counts among his personal friends.
The articles, written by mathematicians from around the
world and coming from diverse fields, portray the important
role of mathematics in our culture. Here, the reflections of
important mathematicians, often focused on the history of
mathematics, are collected, in recognition of Heinz G|tze's
life-longsupport of mathematics.