Drew University Moodle

This course covers the materiality and mechanical production of manuscripts and printed books. Topics discussed in the class may include the production of parchment, paper-making, pigments, inks, illuminations, sewing and binding techniques, etching and engraving, development of the printing press and movable type, and mechanical reproduction, among other things. Beginning with the Carolingian Renaissance and moving through the history of scribal and print production until the end of the Victorian Period, focusing on the study of book-making in both manuscript and printed formats. Situated within the collections of Drew University’s own Special Collections and Archives, students will have the opportunity to receive a hands-on approach to understanding and working with the physical elements of manuscript production and printing history.