IES - In this section
MA/MRes in the History of the Book
Our MA/MRes in the History of the Book provides an unrivalled base for the study of a subject that has been the focus of increasing scholarly attention over the past 30 years. Originally considering mainly physical aspects of the book and the details of its manufacture and trade, scholars have come to see the study of the book as an aid to understanding literary texts and as a focus for insight into social, cultural and intellectual processes in history. The course focuses not only on books, but also newspapers, magazines, chapbooks and broadsides. Because the book did not begin with the invention of printing, the course will also consider the manuscript period before print--as well as the book in the digital era.
The opportunities provided for the study of the History of the Book in London under the aegis of the School of Advanced Study and with the participation of so many of London's major institutions are without parallel. By bringing together the expertise which exists in the University of London and the staff of the British Library, Lambeth Palace Library, St Bride Library, and the Victoria & Albert Museum, students will enjoy benefits difficult to achieve anywhere else.
Courses on the MA/MRes can be interchanged with courses from the London Rare Books School.