TITLE: What is required to learn about algebraic geometry?
QUESTION [8 upvotes]: I want to learn about classical algebraic geometry. So what are subjects that are required to start learning about it? (Some preknowledge of algebra, commutative algebra?)

REPLY [8 votes]: You can learn algebraic geometry at many levels.  To become a researcher in algebraic geometry, you will need to have a solid background in commutative algebra, topology, etc.  One would then proceed through Hartschorne.  However, this is overkill for people who don't want to become professional algebraic geometers.  Miles Reid's book "Undergraduate Algebraic Geometry" does a lot of nice classical geometry, and its only prerequisites are what would usually be covered in a one semester undergraduate course in abstract algebra.