Includes bibliographical references (pages 211-217) and index.

Prologue -- The nature of type design -- Type and language -- History -- Norms -- Convention -- Exemplary designs and themes -- Technology, economy, pragmatism, and formalization -- Strokes and parts -- Structure, pattern, texture -- Consistency and coherence -- Rhythm and space -- Optical adjustments -- Fitting -- Ideas of interference -- Italic -- Large and small: to be seen, to be read -- Typography -- Expression -- Time, place, personality -- Legibility -- Ergonomics -- Classifications -- Evaluation -- Epilogue: Personal preferences.

"Theory of Type Design by internationally renowned type designer Gerard Unger is the first comprehensive theory of typeface design. This volume consists of 24 concise chapters, each clearly describing a different aspect of type design, from the influence of language to today's digital developments, from how our eyes and brain process letterforms to their power of expression. This splendid book includes more than 200 illustrations and practical examples that illuminate the theoretical material. The terminology is succinctly explained in the volume's extensive glossary. The theory is internationally orientated and relevant for typography courses, professionals and those with a general interest in text and reading all over the world."--Publisher description