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.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
First English Book
The first book printed in English was William Caxton's "Recuyell of the Histories of Troy".
It's a misnomer, as it focuses more on Hercules than the Trojan War.
insights INSIGHT
Target Audience
Caxton's "Recuyell", printed in Flanders (1473-74), targeted English merchants there.
It was also intended for export to England.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Caxton's Background
William Caxton, a successful merchant, became governor of English merchants in Flanders (1462).
Exiled in Cologne, he encountered printing and brought it to England.
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William Caxton's Recuyell of the Histories of Troy
William Caxton's Recuyell of the Histories of Troy
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William Caxton
William Caxton's Recuyell of the Histories of Troy holds a significant place in English literary history as the first book printed in English. It's a translation of a French work, itself based on a Latin version of the Greek myths surrounding the Trojan War. The book's importance lies not just in its content but in its role as a catalyst for the spread of printing technology and the development of the English language. Caxton's printing press marked a pivotal moment in the dissemination of knowledge and literature, paving the way for future literary advancements. The Recuyell's publication signifies the beginning of a new era in English publishing.
The Canterbury tales
Geoffrey Chaucer
The New Testament
A Student's Introduction
Harris, Stephen L.
This book provides a thorough and accessible introduction to the New Testament, covering its historical background, literary characteristics, and theological themes. It is tailored for students and includes detailed explanations and analyses to facilitate a deeper understanding of the New Testament texts.
In this episode, Greg Jenner is joined in 15th-Century England by Dr Lydia Zeldenrust and comedian Robin Ince to learn all about the early history of book printing.
2024 marks the 550th anniversary of the first book printed in English: a history of Troy, produced in 1474 by William Caxton. In the decades that followed, numerous printing shops would be set up across the country, and a huge variety of texts printed, including those that carried potentially dangerous ideas.
Starting with the origins of printing in East Asia, this episode explores the first century of printing in England, looking at how books were produced and by whom, what sorts of texts were being printed, who was reading them, and how the state reacted to this new industry.
This is a radio edit of the original podcast episode. For the full-length version, please look further back in the feed.
Hosted by: Greg Jenner
Research by: Jon Norman Mason
Written by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner
Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
Production Coordinator: Ben Hollands
Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse
Executive Editor: James Cook
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