Subject
Printing -- Great Britain -- History Books
Best books
Charles Knight
The Old Printer and the Modern Press
"The Old Printer and the Modern Press" by Charles Knight is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work explores the life of William Caxton, the first English printer, highlighting his contributions to the dissemination of knowledge through the printed word. The narrative reflects on various themes, including the evolution of the English language, the cultural landscape before and after the introduction of printing, and the socio-economic changes triggered by this revolutionary technology. At the start of the narrative, the context surrounding Caxton’s early life is established, particularly focusing on the Weald of Kent where he grew up. The text discusses the linguistic environment of the time, noting the transition from French to English in education, and the scarcity of books before the advent of printing. Knight paints a vivid picture of Caxton's formative years, illustrating the societal isolation and linguistic variations in his rural upbringing. The opening portion sets the stage for understanding Caxton’s later accomplishments and the profound impact of printing on English literature, culture, and society.
E. Gordon (Edward Gordon) Duff
The English provincial printers, stationers and bookbinders to 1557
"The English Provincial Printers, Stationers and Bookbinders to 1557" by E. Gordon Duff is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work investigates the lesser-known history of provincial printing presses in England, focusing on their establishment and operations from the late 15th century to 1557. This book aims to shed light on the crucial role that provincial towns played in the evolution of the printing industry, which has often been overshadowed by the more prominent presses in London and the University towns. The opening of the book serves as an introduction to the subject, providing a preface that outlines the significance and novelty of researching the provincial printers. Duff notes the limited historical attention given to towns like Ipswich, Worcester, and Canterbury, despite their contributions during a tumultuous period in England. He emphasizes the need for further investigation into the careers and works of the printers, as well as the rediscovery of lost texts. The text discusses the historical context of printing in England, detailing earlier lectures given on printers in Westminster and London, and sets the stage for a detailed exploration of various provincial printing centers, beginning with Oxford.
Frederick W. (Frederick William) Hamilton
A Brief History of Printing in England A Short History of Printing in England from Caxton to the Present Time
"A Brief History of Printing in England" by Frederick W. Hamilton is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The text explores the evolution of printing in England, discussing key figures such as William Caxton and the development of printing technology and industry regulations. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the history of English printing while connecting it to broader cultural and societal contexts. The opening of the book sets the foundation for an exploration of the significant milestones in English printing, starting with the initial resistance to the technology compared to continental Europe. It introduces William Caxton as a central figure, detailing his journey from apprenticeship to establishing the first printing press in England. The text highlights the cultural and political challenges England faced during the fifteenth century, which hindered the immediate flourishing of the printing trade and offers a glimpse into Caxton's background, including his ventures in Bruges that influenced his eventual return to England to print books that would cater to the local populace’s tastes.
William Morris
The Art and Craft of Printing
"The Art and Craft of Printing" by William Morris is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on the founding principles and practices of the Kelmscott Press, which Morris established to produce beautiful and legible books that pay homage to the aesthetics of medieval print culture. It delves into the intricacies of typography and design, revealing Morris's dedication to craftsmanship in the art of bookmaking. The opening of the work reveals Morris's motivations for starting the Kelmscott Press and his admiration for medieval calligraphy and early printing techniques. He articulates his desire to create books that are aesthetically pleasing yet functional, stressing the importance of quality materials and thoughtful design elements, such as spacing, typeface selection, and decorative ornamentation. Morris provides insights into his processes, including the hand-crafted paper he deemed essential for durability and beauty, as well as his explorations into type design, all of which lay the groundwork for his vision of an ideal book.
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