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Robert Darnton, "Pirating and Publishing: The Book Trade in the Age of Enlightenment" (Oxford UP, 2021)

New Books in Economic and Business History

CHAPTER

Unveiling the History of Books

This chapter explores transformative discoveries in archival research, particularly the finding of Jacques-Pierre Brissot's letters in Switzerland, prompting a shift from biography to the broader history of books. It examines the complex dynamics of intellectual property, censorship, and the evolution of access to literature during the Enlightenment, revealing the tensions between publishers, booksellers, and the emerging demand for mass-produced literature. Through a detailed discussion of historical methodologies and the fascinating world of book piracy, the chapter highlights the interconnectedness of the book trade and cultural access.

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