bibliotheology

Bibliotheology is the academic study of books as physical objects and the role they play in society and culture. It examines the history of books, their production, distribution, and reception, as well as the social, economic, and political contexts in which they have existed. This field often intersects with other disciplines such as literary studies, history, art history, sociology, and information science.

The focus of bibliotheology extends beyond the textual content of a book to its material aspects. This includes the study of paper, ink, binding, typography, and illustration, as well as the provenance and ownership of books. Scholars in this field might investigate the evolution of printing techniques, the economics of book publishing across different eras, or the ways in which books have been collected and preserved.

Bibliotheology also considers the cultural impact of books, including their influence on literacy, education, and the dissemination of ideas. It explores how books have shaped identities, facilitated social movements, and contributed to the development of knowledge systems. The study can encompass a wide range of materials, from ancient manuscripts to contemporary printed works and even digital texts when considered in their material and cultural dimensions. Ultimately, bibliotheology seeks to understand the multifaceted relationship between humans and the book throughout history.