Alphabet: The Story of Writing

(Pt. 1) Calligrapher Donald Jackson presents an historical overview of the alphabet from the cave paintings and markings made by people more than 35,000 years ago to the stylus and wax tablets of the Romans and the hieroglyphics of the Egyptians. (Pt. 2) Traces the history of the modern alphabet from its beginnings during the Roman Empire, including its appearance on Hadrian's Wall in England, to its development during the reign of Charlemagne. Jackson demonstrates techniques for making a quill pen and illuminating medieval manuscripts. (Pt. 3) Traces the development of the alphabet from the Middle Ages to the invention of the printing press to advances in making portable pens during the Victorian period. Discusses various styles of lettering, including gothic and italic. (Pt. 4) Presents an historical overview of various writing implements from the invention of steel nibs in Birmingham, England, during the Industrial Revolution to the development of the fountain and ball-point pen to the typewriter and word processor of modern times. Describes how calligraphy has become an art form.