Bibliographical Analysis: A Historical Introduction

by G. Thomas Tanselle

Studying printed books as physical objects can reveal not only how books were produced, but also how their design and layout features emerged and came to convey meanings. This concise and accessible introduction to analytical bibliography in its historical context explains in clear, non-specialist language how to find and analyze clues about a book's manufacture and how to examine the significance of a book's design. Written by one of the most eminent bibliographical and textual scholars working today, the book is both a practical guide to bibliographical research and a history of bibliography as a developing field of study. For all who use books, this is an ideal starting point for learning how to read the object along with the words.

Genres: Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Nigel Lepianka · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a bibliographer, this is a great primer, though it is not without its snark for critics that Tanselle isn't fond of; his recommendations of those critics usually come with a backhanded compliment.

[Kevin Mckinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

even better the second time through