Frequently asked questions regarding registration
Is Commutative Algebra a prerequisite for MTH437(Introduction to Schemes)?
It is not a prerequisite. We will try to develop the commutative algebra needed along with the associated geometry. Primarily, we will work specifically with the (graded) polynomial ring, its ideals and modules.
Basic knowledge of rings of polynomials and matrices with coefficients/entries in fields will be assumed. (Please revise MTH302/MTH308!).
Is it possible to learn Commutative Algebra (MTH411) and Introduction to Schemes (MTH437) simultaneously in a semester?
It is certainly possible as the time-table allows. There may be some overlap. However, note that we will be working primarily with the graded polynomial ring and its ideals and modules.
Since the courses are independent, I will not assume that students of "Schemes" are registered for the "Commutative Algebra" course.
Atiyah and MacDonald's book on Commutative Algebra vs Eisenbud's ''Commutative Algebra with a view towards Algebraic Geometry"
Note that those books are probably more directly relevant to the course on Commutative Algebra and not as much to this course. Hence, the following remarks are general advice not specific to MTH437.
Both books are considered good. Since Eisenbud's book did not exist when I was a student(!), I have not read it in detail whereas I did read Atiyah/McDonald. However, when I started studying algebraic geometry, I found that this book was inadequate and I needed more. For example, the books by Serre, Matsumara or Altman/Kleiman. You could also look at the TIFR notes: http://www.math.tifr.res.in/~publ/pamphlets/homological.pdf