William Caxton introduced the printing press to the Kingdom of England in 1476, fundamentally altering the production of written texts. Operating from Westminster, he transitioned from a successful career as a merchant and diplomat to become the first English retailer of printed books, leaving behind a legacy of classical literature and historical records.
From Mercantile Trade to Translation
Born in 1422 in Hadlow, Caxton initially established himself within the merchant class. In 1438, he began an apprenticeship under Robert Large, a prominent mercer in London. His career eventually took him abroad, where he gained significant influence as the governor of the Company of Merchant Adventurers. During his extensive travels, he observed emerging printing techniques in Cologne, which prompted a shift in his professional focus toward the production of books.
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Collaboration with Colard Mansion in Bruges marked Caxton’s entry into the printing industry. He prioritized the translation and publication of notable works, starting with his own rendition of Recuyell of the Historyes of Troye. Following his return to England, he set up a printing press at Westminster. This facility became the primary engine for distributing literature, including the works of Chaucer and various chivalric romances.
Literary and Linguistic Impact
Caxton operated as a linguist and translator, working with Middle English and Renaissance Latin. Among his notable publications were The Game and Playe of the Chesse, The history of Jason, Paris and Vienne, and The four sons of Aymon. He also printed devotional texts such as The lyff of the olde auncyent holy faders hermytes and The craft for to die for the health of man's soule. His editorial choices helped promote a standardized London dialect.
Legacy and Final Years
The final years of his life were spent overseeing his publishing house until his death in 1492. He was interred at St Margaret's Church in Westminster. His influence remains a subject of study, and his contribution to the spread of literature in the English language solidified his role as a key figure in the history of publishing.
Fast facts
- Born: 1422, Hadlow
- Died: 1492, London
- Primary Occupations: Printer, Translator, Merchant
- First Press in England: 1476
- Notable Work: The Game and Playe of the Chesse
- Burial Site: St Margaret's Church, Westminster
Questions readers ask
What was the first book printed by Caxton in England?
The first book he is known to have produced at his Westminster press was an edition of Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales.
Where did Caxton learn about the printing industry?
He observed the new printing industry while traveling through Cologne during his time as a merchant.
