In many areas with early writing, the most common book form after the invention of papyrus scrolls became the codex. In this exhibition, we define the codex in the strict meaning of “single- or multi-gatherings of sheets folded inside each other, with texts on both sides, sewn together, and usually attached onto covers.” This format, unlike the earlier scrolls, allowed for an easier perusal of the text. The sheets themselves could be made from papyrus, parchment or, later, paper, and the form remained central after the transition from manuscript to print.

In the first few centuries CE it notably came into wide use among early Christian communities, and spread widely in all directions following the Abrahamic religions. A further global spread took place in conjunction with colonialism and imperialism making the codex the unquestioned textual form in manuscript or print. It slowly replaced other existing traditions and also started to be used in language communities who did not already have their own written forms.