An overview of the history of handwriting and graphic lettering, from the earliest written language to typesetting used in creative, modern graphic design. The development of printing is outlined as well, from Gutenberg and Jenson to the present, followed by a comparative study of Gothic, Roman and Latin letter types. Logotypes are examined as a medium of communication. The author looks at the technical requirements of logos, their use as images, and how these images are associated with corporate and brand names. The survey includes discussions of phototypesetting and laser printing.