Authors and Owners

In Authors and Owners, Mark Rose examines the evolution of authorship and copyright, tracing its origins in eighteenth-century Britain and its contemporary implications.

The concept of authorship as we know it today, where the author is viewed as the originator and primary owner of their work, is a relatively modern idea. In Authors and Owners, Mark Rose delves into the historical development of this notion, tracing its roots back to eighteenth-century Britain. He examines how the evolving economic and social landscape of the time influenced the way authors and their creations were perceived, highlighting the interplay between individual rights and collective ownership in the realm of literature.

Rose's exploration reveals that the legal framework surrounding copyright and intellectual property was not merely a reflection of artistic value, but also a manifestation of changing societal norms. As he navigates this complex history, he draws attention to ongoing debates regarding intellectual property that remain relevant today. The book invites readers to consider how the legal definitions of authorship impact not only writers but also the broader cultural landscape.

Authors and Owners serves as both a historical account and a critical analysis of the implications of copyright law, making it an essential read for those interested in literature, law, and cultural studies. Rose's insights encourage a deeper understanding of how authorship has evolved and the challenges it faces in the contemporary world.