The Reign of the Manuscript

"The Reign of the Manuscript" by Perry Wayland Sinks is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the evolution and significance of manuscript literature, particularly in connection to the invention of the printing press, and its impact on the dissemination of knowledge and culture. It examines the transition from manuscripts to print, following major developments in text composition and the materials used for book-making. The opening of the text establishes the foundational role of the invention of printing in shaping human history and literature. It discusses the limitations and labor-intensive nature of manuscript production prior to printing, emphasizing the significance of movable type introduced by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century. This section sets the stage for a detailed exploration of manuscript literature's history, the human efforts involved in its preservation, and the transition towards a more accessible, printed culture that followed, showcasing the profound shift in the way literature was created and shared among people.