Blackletter

Definition

Blackletter, also known as Gothic script, is a style of typeface characterized by its ornate and angular letterforms that were commonly used in Western Europe from the 12th to the 17th centuries. This typeface is significant for its connection to early printed books, embodying the aesthetic and cultural values of the medieval period while being integral to the development of typography.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Blackletter originated in the early medieval period and was prevalent in illuminated manuscripts before its adoption in printed books.
2. The style of blackletter includes various forms such as Textura, Fraktur, and Schwabacher, each having unique characteristics and regional variations.
3. Even after the decline of blackletter in favor of Roman type, it continued to be used for certain religious texts and ceremonial purposes due to its historical significance.
4. The use of blackletter typefaces in early printed books symbolized scholarly authority and tradition, as many texts were still rooted in medieval culture.
5. Today, blackletter is often associated with gothic or medieval themes and is commonly used in designs for events like Halloween or medieval fairs.

Review Questions

• How did blackletter influence the design of early printed books and what does this reveal about the culture of that time?
  • Blackletter had a profound impact on the design of early printed books, reflecting the cultural values of the medieval period. The ornate and angular letterforms were not just visually striking but also conveyed a sense of authority and tradition. By using blackletter, printers were able to connect their works to the esteemed manuscript culture that preceded them, ensuring that printed texts held a respected place in society.
• In what ways did the transition from blackletter to Roman type signify changes in literacy and communication during the Renaissance?
  • The shift from blackletter to Roman type represented a significant evolution in literacy and communication as it aligned with humanist ideals emerging during the Renaissance. Roman type offered improved legibility and clarity, making texts more accessible to a broader audience. This transition indicated a move away from medieval constraints toward a more open exchange of ideas, which helped foster intellectual growth and societal change during this transformative period.
• Evaluate the legacy of blackletter in modern typography and design; how does it continue to resonate with contemporary audiences?
  • Blackletter's legacy endures in modern typography and design by evoking themes of history, tradition, and authenticity. Despite its decline as a standard typeface, it resurfaces in contexts where a dramatic or historical effect is desired, such as branding for craft breweries or gothic-themed events. Its continued use reflects an appreciation for visual storytelling and an awareness of cultural heritage that resonates with contemporary audiences seeking connection to the past.

Related terms

Gutenberg Press: The first movable type printing press invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, which revolutionized the production of books and made literature more accessible.

Roman type: A typeface style that emerged as a contrast to blackletter, characterized by its more legible, humanist letterforms that became dominant in later printing.

Incunabula: Books printed before 1501, during the infancy of printing, many of which utilized blackletter typefaces reflecting the transition from manuscript culture to print.