Category: Literature > Printing
The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century marked a pivotal moment in the history of literature, fundamentally transforming both the creation and consumption of written works. Before this innovation, books were painstakingly copied by hand, making them rare and expensive commodities accessible only to the wealthy elite and religious institutions. The printing press drastically reduced production costs and time, allowing for the mass production of books. This democratization of literature empowered a broader audience, leading to increased literacy rates and the rapid dissemination of ideas during the Renaissance and Reformation. Consequently, this shift not only influenced the style and content of literature—encouraging new genres and the rise of vernacular writing—but also enabled the spread of revolutionary concepts that challenged traditional authority, ultimately laying the groundwork for modern democratic societies.