A Short History of English Printing, 1476-1898   By: Henry Robert Plomer (1856-1928)

Henry Robert Plomer's A Short History of English Printing, 1476-1898 provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the fascinating world of English printing. Spanning over three centuries, the book delves into the origins and development of printing in England, shedding light on the integral role it played in shaping the literary and cultural landscape of the nation.

Plomer's meticulous research and in-depth analysis make this book an insightful and invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history of English printing. The author leaves no stone unturned as he traces the evolution of the printing press from its humble beginnings in the late 15th century to the height of the Victorian era.

One of the book's strengths lies in its organization and structure. Plomer divides the material into chronological periods, allowing readers to easily follow the progression of printing practices and significant milestones throughout history. Moreover, his writing style is concise and accessible, making complex historical concepts understandable and engaging for both experts and casual readers.

By examining key figures and events, Plomer brings to life the struggles and achievements of the early printers who paved the way for the diffusion of knowledge via printed materials. The book pays homage to renowned printers like William Caxton, Richard Pynson, and John Day, while also shining a light on lesser-known craftsmen who made invaluable contributions to the field.

A notable feature of A Short History of English Printing is Plomer's attention to the social, economic, and political contexts in which printing thrived. He explores the profound impact of the Reformation, the English Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution on the printing industry. These insights unveil the intricate dance between the printing press and wider historical movements, unraveling the significant influence that printing had on society at large.

While the book caters to readers with an existing interest in the subject matter, it manages to strike a delicate balance between scholarly depth and readability. Plomer's inclusion of numerous illustrations and examples of printed works throughout the centuries brings visual richness to the text, enabling readers to visually appreciate the progression of printing techniques and styles.

However, it is worth noting that Plomer's work is primarily a historical account, focused more on documenting the evolution of printing rather than exploring its cultural and literary impact in great depth. While this approach allows for a comprehensive overview, readers seeking an in-depth exploration of specific literary movements or individual books may need to seek additional sources.

In conclusion, Henry Robert Plomer's A Short History of English Printing, 1476-1898 is an excellent resource for anyone curious about the origins and development of English printing throughout the centuries. Plomer's meticulous research, accessible writing style, and inclusion of visual aids make this book an essential addition to any library on printing history. It serves as a gateway for further exploration into the fascinating world of English printing and its wide-ranging influence on society and culture.

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When Mr. Plomer consented at my request to write a short history of English printing which should stop neither at the end of the fifteenth century, nor at the end of the sixteenth century, nor at 1640, but should come down, as best it could, to our own day, we were not without apprehensions that the task might prove one of some difficulty. How difficult it would be we had certainly no idea, or the book would never have been begun, and now that it is finished I would bespeak the reader's sympathies, on Mr. Plomer's behalf, that its inevitable shortcomings may be the more generously forgiven. If we look at what has already been written on the subject the difficulties will be more easily appreciated. In England, as in other countries, the period in the history of the press which is best known to us is, by the perversity of antiquaries, that which is furthest removed from our own time. Of all that can be learnt about Caxton the late Mr. William Blades set down in his monumental work nine tenths, and the zeal of Henry Bradshaw, of Mr... Continue reading book >>