In this book the reader will find a treatment of certain aspects of linear algebra that meets the two objectives: to develop systematically the central role of invariant subspaces in the analysis of linear transformations and to include relevant recent developments of linear algebra stimulated by linear systems theory. As examples of new concepts of linear algebra developed to meet the needs of systems theory, we should mention invariant subspaces for nonsquare matrices and similarity of such matrices. In the treatment of such problems new concepts and theories have been developed that form complete new chapters in the body of linear algebra. The need for such a treatment has become more apparent in recent years because of developments in different fields of application and especially in linear systems theory, where concepts such as controllability, feedback, factorization, and realization of matrix functions are commonplace. It seems to the authors that now there is a case for developing a treatment of linear algebra in which the central role of invariant subspace is systematically followed up.
Probably for this reason, the first books on invariant subspaces appeared in the framework of infinite-dimensional spaces. Here, it can be argued that the structure is poorer and this is one of the few available tools for the study of many classes of operators. The importance of invariant subspaces becomes clearer in the context of operator theory on spaces of infinite dimension. In particular, the notion of an invariant subspace as an entity is often lost in the discussion of eigenvalues, eigenvectors, generalized eigenvectors, and so on. Perhaps because the whole structure is very rich, the treatment becomes fragmented as other related ideas and notions intervene. However, in existing texts and expositions the notion is not easily or systematically followed. Invariant subspaces are a central notion of linear algebra.
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