Relativity Reviews of “Gravity: An Introduction to Einstein’s General Relativity”

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James B. Hartle's book "Gravity: An Introduction to Einstein’s General Relativity" is highly regarded as one of the most accessible introductions to general relativity (GR), making it suitable for self-study. However, a solid understanding of special relativity (SR) is essential, as the book revises SR but does not cover it in depth. Additionally, readers should be familiar with advanced undergraduate mathematics, as the book, while minimizing mathematical complexity, still requires a certain level of mathematical proficiency. The inclusion of a free 389-page solutions manual enhances its value for self-learners.
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TL;DR Summary: Review/Rating of “Gravity … … “ by James B. Hartle

Thoughts regarding prerequisites for reading this book

I would be really grateful if someone would rate/evaluate/review James B. Hartle’z book, “Gravity: An introduction to Einstein’s General Relativity”

Would the book be suitable for self study … especially given that James Hartle has provided a free solutions manual of 389 pages … which includes solutions to all problems in his book!!!

Peter
 
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It's probably the most accessible serious introduction to GR. And possibly the best for self-study. GR, however, is not an easy subject. The main prerequisite is to have a really thorough grasp of SR. Hartle revises SR in the book, but I don't think that's enough by itself. And, although Hartle goes as light as possible on the mathematics, the book still requires familiarity with advanced undergraduate mathematics.
 
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PeroK said:
And possibly the best for self-study.

Oh yes, I agree with that. It's a great book.
 
PeroK said:
It's probably the most accessible serious introduction to GR. And possibly the best for self-study. GR, however, is not an easy subject. The main prerequisite is to have a really thorough grasp of SR. Hartle revises SR in the book, but I don't think that's enough by itself. And, although Hartle goes as light as possible on the mathematics, the book still requires familiarity with advanced undergraduate mathematics.
Thanks so much, PeroK .... that is most helpful ...

Peter
 
This thread only works as a summary from the original source: List of STEM Masterworks in Physics, Mechanics, Electrodynamics... The original thread got very long and somewhat hard to read so I have compiled the recommendations from that thread in an online (Google Drive) spreadsheet. SUMMARY Permits are granted so you can make comments on the spreadsheet but I'll initially be the only one capable of edition. This is to avoid the possibility of someone deleting everything either by mistake...
By looking around, it seems like Dr. Hassani's books are great for studying "mathematical methods for the physicist/engineer." One is for the beginner physicist [Mathematical Methods: For Students of Physics and Related Fields] and the other is [Mathematical Physics: A Modern Introduction to Its Foundations] for the advanced undergraduate / grad student. I'm a sophomore undergrad and I have taken up the standard calculus sequence (~3sems) and ODEs. I want to self study ahead in mathematics...

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