Fraktur

Fraktur

Fraktur is a script style that originated in the early 16th century and was widely used in German-speaking countries until the mid-20th century. It is characterized by its angular, broken appearance, which distinguishes it from other Gothic scripts. Fraktur was used for a variety of purposes, including printing books, official documents, and newspapers.

History

Fraktur developed from earlier Gothic scripts, such as Textualis and Schwabacher. It was first used in the early 1500s and became the dominant typeface in German-speaking regions. The name "Fraktur" comes from the Latin "fractura," meaning "broken," referring to the script's distinctive broken lines.

The script gained prominence with the publication of the Luther Bible in 1534, which was printed in Fraktur. This helped establish Fraktur as the standard typeface for German texts. Over the centuries, Fraktur evolved, with various styles and variations emerging.

Characteristics

Fraktur is known for its:

• Angular shapes: The letters have sharp, angular forms, with many straight lines and sharp angles.
• Broken lines: Unlike smooth, continuous curves, Fraktur features broken, interrupted strokes.
• Ligatures: Fraktur often uses ligatures, where two or more letters are joined together to form a single glyph.
• Distinctive capitals: The capital letters in Fraktur are often elaborate and ornate.

Usage

Fraktur was used extensively in German-speaking countries for centuries. It was the standard typeface for books, newspapers, and official documents. However, its use declined in the 20th century, particularly after the Nazi regime banned its use in 1941, falsely claiming it was of Jewish origin.

Modern Usage

Today, Fraktur is primarily used for decorative purposes, such as in logos, signage, and tattoos. It is also studied for its historical significance and its role in the history of typography.

Also see

• Gothic script
• Blackletter
• Typography
• Calligraphy
• Luther Bible