Literacy in early modern Europe : culture and education, 1500-1800 (2nd ed)

In 1500 few people in Europe could read or write: by 1800, the era of mass literacy had already arrived.

The change was momentous in itself, and in its implications. Rab Houston explores the importance of education, literacy and popular culture in Europe during this period of transition.

He draws his examples for all over the continent; and concentrates on the experience of ordinary men and women, rather than just privileged and exceptional elites.