This book provides an introduction to the modern theory of polynomials
whose coefficients are linear bounded operators in a Banach space -
operator polynomials. This theory has its roots and applications in
partial differential equations, mechanics and linear systems, as well as
in modern operator theory and linear algebra. Over the last decade, new
advances have been made in the theory of operator polynomials based on
the spectral approach. The author, along with other mathematicians,
participated in this development, and many of the recent results are
reflected in this monograph. It is a pleasure to acknowledge help given
to me by many mathematicians. First I would like to thank my teacher and
colleague, I. Gohberg, whose guidance has been invaluable. Throughout
many years, I have worked wtih several mathematicians on the subject of
operator polynomials, and, consequently, their ideas have influenced my
view of the subject; these are I. Gohberg, M. A. Kaashoek, L. Lerer, C.
V. M. van der Mee, P. Lancaster, K. Clancey, M. Tismenetsky, D. A.
Herrero, and A. C. M. Ran. The following mathematicians gave me advice
concerning various aspects of the book: I. Gohberg, M. A. Kaashoek, A.
C. M. Ran, K. Clancey, J. Rovnyak, H. Langer, P.