HIST 5708

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of the book in continental Europe, emphasizing both its material production and cultural significance, from the Middle Ages to the Early Modern period – from medieval codices to the first newspapers of the early 17th century. Topics include monastic scriptoria, the rise of universities and their influence on book production, the emergence of vernacular literature for aristocratic audiences, and the spread of books to broader readerships. The impact of the printing press will be a key focus, highlighting its role as a transformative technology that revolutionized knowledge dissemination across the continent and beyond. Students will gain an appreciation for these valuable artifacts, which have preserved, propagated, and shaped knowledge throughout history.