Prior to the invention of the printing press, what groups of individuals had the most access to books
Reproductions: The Art and History of Printing 7B
3 answers
Before the invention of the printing press, books were mostly hand-copied by scribes and monks. This meant that only the wealthy and educated elite, such as nobles, clergy, and scholars, had access to books. These individuals had the resources and time to commission manuscripts or have them copied for personal use. The availability of books was limited and expensive, making them a luxury item for the privileged few.
What’s the answer?
Before the invention of the printing press, the wealthy elite, such as nobles, clergy, and scholars, had the most access to books. They had the resources and ability to commission manuscripts or have them copied for personal use, making books a luxury item for the privileged few.