Henri-Jean Martin was a leading authority on the history of the book in Europe, and an expert on the history of writing and printing. He was instrumental in efforts to promote libraries in France and in the study of their history and the history of printing. His work focused on the transition from manuscripts to printed books and the societal impact of this evolution. He was a pivotal figure in the promotion and study of libraries and printing.
The emergence of the book was an event of world historical importance, and heralded the dawning of modernity. This title presents the history of that process, combining technological history, sociology and anthropology, with the study of modes of consciousness to root the development of printing in the ideological struggles of Western Europe.
Henri-Jean Martin delves into the significance of books and the publishing industry in early modern France, examining how they shaped culture and society. His exploration highlights the evolution of reading practices, the impact of print on literacy, and the broader implications for knowledge dissemination during this transformative period. Through a historical lens, Martin reveals the intricate relationship between books and the social dynamics of the time.