Book excerpt: Basic Electromagnetic Theory is designed as a concise introduction to electromagnetic field theory emphasizing the physical foundations of the subject. It is aimed at both undergraduates and interested laypersons. It has been based on the author's experience both as a former field theorist (working on quantum electrodynamics) and currently as an applied optical physicist. As such, it covers much material from the standard university syllabus. It also develops a number of themes in greater detail, so as to cover a number of non-standard topics that provide a fuller understanding of the subject. A key aspect to the book is the macroscopic approach to the subject from the outset. Most readers will have some familiarity with the standard mathematics employed, but a review chapter is provided at the beginning to help give some guidance on these topics as they are used throughout the book. Features: •Designed as a concise introduction to electromagnetic field theory emphasizing the physical foundations of the subject •Covers a number of non-standard topics that provide a fuller understanding of the subject