Reading Type Specimens: From Cicero to Spoonie Diddel, Ladies Cicerone

There is more to the texts of type specimens than the ubiquitous “Quousque tandem abutere…” of Cicero’s first oration against Catiline. Careful reading of type specimens, especially those of the nineteenth century, reveals widespread patriotism, jingoism, and cultural chauvinism; historical and literary allusions; references to topical events; wordplay, sophomoric humor, and parody; and bald self-promotion. Unfortunately, they also contain racist, sexist, and xenophobic comments. In sum, type specimens are more than just a collection of pretty faces. They are a window into the attitudes and concerns of the past. This particular event will focus on nineteenth-century American type specimens.

Please join Paul Shaw Live at the Archive for refreshments between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Paul’s presentation will begin promptly at 6:30pm, followed by Q&A.

* This event will not be streamed live. After it concludes, all registrants will receive a link to the video recording.