Space Between Words by Paul Saenger

The Origins of Silent Reading

This insightful exploration delves into the evolution of reading practices in Western culture, tracing the transition from scriptura continua, where words were written without spaces, to the modern convention of word separation. The book examines how this pivotal change, occurring during the Middle Ages, revolutionized the way people read, thought, and processed information, ultimately influencing cognitive development and literacy. By analyzing historical manuscripts and the gradual adoption of word spacing, the narrative reveals the profound impact of this seemingly simple innovation on the intellectual landscape of Europe.

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