How The (English) Alphabet Became A Thing, Part One: Writing Stuff Down Is A Bonkers Idea

This book, co-created by Marshall McLuhan and Quentin Fiore, is a graphical and creative representation of McLuhan's 'medium is the message' theory. It features an experimental collage style with text and images, including photographs and historic visuals. The title, which was originally a typo ('The Medium is the Message'), was retained by McLuhan as it aptly describes how media 'massage' or influence human perception and society. The book argues that media are extensions of human senses, shaping our personal, political, economic, aesthetic, psychological, moral, ethical, and social lives. It also discusses the concept of the 'global village' and how new media technologies reshape social and personal interactions[1][3][5].

Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that chronicles the daring deeds of its titular hero, Beowulf. The story begins with Beowulf's journey to help King Hrothgar of the Danes, whose mead hall, Heorot, is terrorized by the monster Grendel. Beowulf kills Grendel and later Grendel's mother, then returns to his homeland to become king of the Geats. After ruling for 50 years, he faces his final battle against a fire-breathing dragon, which ultimately leads to his death. The poem explores themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle between civilization and wilderness[1][3][5].