What's Happening?
Yale's Sterling Memorial Library is hosting an exhibit titled 'Beauties of My Style: Errata and the Printed Mistake,' which delves into the history of typos and printing errors. The exhibit features notable examples, including the infamous 'Wicked Bible'
from 1631, which mistakenly omitted the word 'not' from the commandment 'Thou shalt not commit adultery.' This error led to severe repercussions for the publishers, including a fine and loss of their printing license. The exhibit also showcases errata lists from the 15th century and includes works by authors like James Joyce, whose 'Ulysses' was initially published with numerous errors. The exhibit aims to highlight the challenges of proofreading and the tradition of published mistakes.
Why It's Important?
The exhibit underscores the significant impact that errors in printed materials can have, both historically and in contemporary contexts. It highlights the importance of accuracy in publishing and the potential consequences of mistakes, which can range from legal repercussions to public embarrassment. By showcasing these historical errors, the exhibit also emphasizes the human element in publishing, where mistakes are inevitable but can also lead to learning and improvement. This reflection on the past serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for diligence in editing and proofreading in the publishing industry.
