Mortal Thoughts is a study of the question of human identity in the early modern period. It examines literature alongside emerging forms of life writing, life drawing, and self-portraits and considers portrayals of mortality and the moment of death.
Richly illustrated with manuscripts, printed objects, and art works, Bibliophobia tells a 5000-year history of writing and of books to give readers a fascinating account of why books matter and how they impact on our lives.