The British Library Guide to Writing and Scripts - Softcover

Brown, Michelle P.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0712345833 ISBN 13: 9780712345835

Publisher: The British Library Publishing Division, 1998

Synopsis

This work takes a look at the development of writing systems throughout the world, how they have evolved according to different social needs, and anticipates how the rise of the computer will affect the development of writing in the future. The author discusses particularly the role of writing in the West before the invention of printing, and its place in the production of the medieval book. This book is part of a series which ties in with "The Workshop", a gallery exhibition in the British Library, presenting practical aspects of the history of books and bookmaking in an interactive environment. Each title offers an historical overview of techniques and processes, illustrated with examples from the Library's collection.

About this title

Review

As curator of illuminated manuscripts for the British Library, Dr Brown is uniquely qualified to guide us through the history and techniques of writing. From Celtic inscriptions to modern computer generated Japanese characters, she explains the interrelation between the different writing systems in the East and West. An in-depth study of the processes involved in the production of the medieval book in the West leads on from the techniques of writing and the influence these tools have had on the form of writing. Most interesting is her overall understanding of the relationship between writing and all the modern forms of communication, such as computers and broadcast media, and how they complement each other. --Kirkus UK

About the Author

Michelle P. Brown is a curator of Western Manuscripts in the British Library and author of several books, including A Guide to Western Historical Scripts and The Book of Cerne.

Edition details

• Publisher: The British Library Publishing Division
• Publication date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0712345833
• ISBN 13: 9780712345835
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 96