Aldus Manutius: The Invention of the Publisher

Aldus Manutius is the greatest figure in the history of the printed book, invented the italic type, issued more first editions of the classics, and Hypnerotomachia Poliphili. This is the first monograph in English on Aldus Manutius in over forty years, showing how he redefined the role of a book printer and participated in debates with contemporaries such as Leonardo da Vinci and Erasmus of Rotterdam.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2023
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Aldus Manutius, a towering figure in the annals of the printed book, stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity. In the bustling city of Venice, Europe's epicenter of printing, he unveiled a revolutionary typeface known as italic, forever shaping the aesthetic landscape of written language. His tireless efforts resulted in an unparalleled number of first editions of classical texts, surpassing all previous records and leaving an indelible mark on the literary world. Moreover, he brought forth Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance that captivates with its exquisite beauty and enigmatic allure. This groundbreaking monograph, the first in English on Aldus Manutius in over forty years, delves into the profound transformation he orchestrated in the realm of book printing. From a mere artisan to a learned publisher, Aldus redefined the role of his profession, engaging in intellectual discourse with luminaries such as Leonardo da Vinci and Erasmus of Rotterdam. As a result, this book offers a captivating window into their world, shedding light on the intellectual and artistic milieu of the time. Aldus Manutius' legacy endures as a testament to his profound impact on the history of the printed book, and this monograph serves as a valuable contribution to our understanding of his remarkable achievements.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789147797