Skip to main content

Mysteries of vernacular: Miniature - Jessica Oreck

42,294 Views

368 Questions Answered

Mysteries of Vernacular

Let’s Begin…

Miniature’s root may be Latin, but its meaning is rooted in books, where red pigment was used to denote chapter breaks. Jessica Oreck explains how we got from there to the meaning of miniature today: something smaller than others of its class.

What was the purpose of the large, ornate, and colorful capital letters used in books during medieval times?

Watch the video and finish the Think section to complete the lesson.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Video created by TED-Ed
  • Lesson Plan created by TED Ed

More from Mysteries of Vernacular