In the second part of The Story of Writing we are treated to a demonstration of medieval quill pens and illumination coupled with a few historical announcements. One of which, towards the beginning of the section, reminded me of the pain I felt in 9th grade. The video explains that in Ireland during the middle ages, the art of manuscripts flourished. Ireland was the only bastion of literate society during this time, according to Thomas Cahill in his book How the Irish Saved Civilization. Unlike the article here, I would not consider this book a “small treasure.”

Back to the video: I was enthralled looking at the first pen presented making letters on parchment. From about 35:30-37:15 the pen made beautiful brushstrokes to create multiple fonts. The flexibility of this tool entranced me. It could make all sorts of Gothic variations depending on how you held it, bent your hand, stopped short, or pressed firmly. Unfortunately, they did not give the name of this tool; it was different from the feather quills discussed in greater detail later.