Story of Books

arts, books, history, technology · EN

Join Rawlings on a captivating journey through the evolution of printing, tracing its roots from the earliest forms of writing to the sophisticated printing processes of today. Delve into ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts inscribed on fragile papyrus and wax tablets, while Rawlings skillfully navigates the limited evidence of these early innovations. As we explore the rise of religious libraries in Europe, discover how monks meticulously copied texts in monasteries, paving the way for the revolutionary block printing technique that combined hand-carved illustrations with handwritten text. The Biblia Pauperum, or Bible of the Poor, serves as an early testament to this efficient method. As the narrative unfolds, Rawlings examines the emergence of printing as an industry, spotlighting the legendary figures of Johann Gutenberg and Laurenz Coster, whose rivalry has sparked centuries of debate. Amidst the beautifully decorated manuscripts, Rawlings highlights the artistry involved