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You're Dead to Me
Printing in England (Radio Edit)
Oct 11, 2024
Dr. Lydia Zeldenrust, a Middle English literature expert, and Robin Ince, a comedian and broadcaster, delve into the fascinating origins of printing in England. They discuss William Caxton's groundbreaking work in 1474 and how it shaped literary culture. The conversation reveals the surprising content of Caxton's first book and compares mythological tales to modern franchises like Marvel. They also explore the transformative effects of printing on society, including literacy and language standardization, laced with humor and historical insights.
28:20
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Quick takeaways
- William Caxton's introduction of the first printed book in English marked a transformative point for literature and commerce in 1474.
- The emergence of the printing industry not only expanded access to texts but also began to challenge social norms, especially regarding female readership.
Deep dives
The Birth of English Printing
The history of printing in England began with William Caxton, who introduced the first book printed in English, 'Recoil of the Histories of Troy,' around 1474. Although Caxton printed this book abroad in Flanders, it marked a significant turning point as it catered to the interests of English merchants and nobility, with ties to the culturally flourishing Burgundian court. Caxton's success stemmed from his connections and understanding of market needs, as he realized that translating popular stories might resonate with an emerging audience in England. This move not only popularized printing but also set the stage for future literary developments in the country.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode