Robert Barker
Early Life and Background
Robert Barker, an influential figure in the history of printing, was born in the late 16th century in England. His exact birth date remains uncertain, but records suggest it was around 1570. Barker was the son of Christopher Barker, the royal printer to Queen Elizabeth I, which provided him with a unique opportunity to learn the intricacies of the printing trade from an early age. The Barker family was deeply entrenched in the world of printing, and Robert inherited not only the business but also the title of royal printer.
Career as a Printer
Robert Barker's career was marked by his role as the royal printer, a position that carried significant responsibility and prestige. In 1599, he succeeded his father and became the official printer to the English monarchy. This role involved the production of official documents, proclamations, and religious texts, most notably the King James Bible, which remains one of his most famous contributions to the world of printing.
The King James Bible
The King James Bible, first published in 1611, is perhaps the most enduring legacy of Robert Barker's career. This monumental work was commissioned by King James I of England and was intended to be an authoritative English translation of the Bible. Barker, along with fellow printer Martin Lucas, was responsible for its production. The translation was carried out by a team of scholars and theologians, and Barker's role was to ensure the quality and accuracy of the printed text.
The King James Bible was a significant achievement in the history of English literature and religion. It not only provided a standard text for the Church of England but also influenced the English language profoundly. Barker's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality were crucial in the successful production of this work.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his successes, Barker's career was not without challenges. The production of the King James Bible was an expensive undertaking, and Barker faced financial difficulties as a result. The costs associated with printing such a large volume were substantial, and Barker struggled to recoup his expenses. Additionally, the printing industry was highly competitive, and Barker had to contend with rival printers who sought to undermine his business.
One of the most notable controversies during Barker's career was the "Wicked Bible" incident in 1631. In this edition of the Bible, a printing error resulted in the omission of the word "not" from the Seventh Commandment, leading to the infamous phrase, "Thou shalt commit adultery." This error caused a scandal, and Barker was fined heavily for the mistake. The incident highlighted the challenges of maintaining accuracy in the printing process and the severe consequences of even minor errors.
Legacy and Impact
Robert Barker's contributions to the field of printing and his role in the production of the King James Bible have left a lasting legacy. The King James Bible remains one of the most widely read and influential texts in the English-speaking world. Barker's work set a standard for quality and accuracy in printing that influenced subsequent generations of printers.
Barker's career also underscores the importance of the printing industry in the dissemination of knowledge and culture during the early modern period. The ability to produce and distribute texts on a large scale was a transformative development in the history of communication, and Barker was at the forefront of this revolution.