Print, Books and Readers in Early Modern Europe
Spring 2010
This course will examine the development of printing technologies in the 15th century, and its impact on the society and culture of early modern Europe. This technological innovation created an information revolution not unlike the one we are experiencing in the 21sth century, transforming almost every aspect of life and thought. One goal of this course is to explore the social, religious, cultural and intellectual effects of printing developments between about 1450 and 1800. To what extent did the emergence of print culture shape the course of the religious reformations of the sixteenth century, stimulate literacy and education, or inform early modern discoveries of the world and universe? Through what networks was information disseminated and received, and to what extent was it controlled or censored? The second goal of this course is to consult the stuff of history, the physical artifacts that can convey to us how books were produced and used. Through several trips to the Small Special Collections Library, students will explore early printed books as artifacts from the past. Not only does an early modern book or pamphlet have the touch and smell that sometimes makes the past come alive, its physical evidence also provides extra layers of meaning in our study of the past.
Course meetings will center on discussion of readings, consultation of materials, and some student presentations with minimal lecturing from me. While students will not be expected to write a large research paper, they will gain archival skills learned in consulting materials and using Special Collections. In addition to some small research questions and assignments, students will write 3-4 short papers. Readings may include works by Robert Darnton, Elizabeth Eisenstein, Anthony Grafton, Philip Gaskell, and David McKitterick among others.
Course meetings will center on discussion of readings, consultation of materials, and some student presentations with minimal lecturing from me. While students will not be expected to write a large research paper, they will gain archival skills learned in consulting materials and using Special Collections. In addition to some small research questions and assignments, students will write 3-4 short papers. Readings may include works by Robert Darnton, Elizabeth Eisenstein, Anthony Grafton, Philip Gaskell, and David McKitterick among others.
