This first course in differential geometry presents the fundamentals of the metric differential geometry of curves and surfaces in a Euclidean space of three dimensions. Written by an outstanding teacher and mathematician, it explains the material in the most effective way, using vector notation and technique. It also provides an introduction to the study of Riemannian geometry.

Suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students, the text presupposes a knowledge of calculus. The first nine chapters focus on the theory, treating the basic properties of curves and surfaces, the mapping of surfaces, and the absolute geometry of a surface. The final chapter considers the applications of the theory to certain important classes of surfaces: surfaces of revolution, ruled surfaces, translation surfaces, and minimal surfaces. Nearly 200 problems appear throughout the text, offering ample reinforcement of every subject.