The History of Calligraphy-TOEFL iBT® Reading Test

techniques of calligraphy adapted to reflect cultural values, technological changes, and
artistic trends, creating a rich historical story.

2 In ancient China, calligraphy was highly valued as one of the top forms of art, deeply
connected to philosophical and spiritual beliefs. The practice can be traced back to the
Shang Dynasty (c. 16001046 BCE), where writings on prediction bones show early forms of
Chinese characters. By the Han Dynasty (206 BCE220 CE), calligraphy had become a
respected field, with notable figures like Wang Xizhi, often called the "Sage of Calligraphy."
His works showed the smoothness and grace typical of Chinese calligraphy, influencing
generations of artists. The development of different scripts, including the Seal Script and the
Regular Script, allowed for personal expression within a structured framework,
demonstrating how calligraphy served both practical and artistic purposes.

3 Meanwhile, in the Islamic world, calligraphy became an important art form during the 7th
century, especially as a way to transcribe the Quran. The ban on depicting human figures in
Islamic art led to the rise of calligraphy as a main artistic expression. The Arabic script, with
its flowing lines and complex designs, became a symbol of cultural identity and religious
commitment. Notable calligraphers, such as Ibn Muqlah and Ibn al-Bawwab, developed
different styles, including the Thuluth and Naskh scripts, which are still admired today.
Calligraphy was not limited to religious texts; it also adorned architecture, ceramics, and
textiles, showcasing the beauty of the written word. This artistic tradition preserved
religious texts and fostered a sense of community and shared identity among diverse
Islamic cultures.

4 The Renaissance period in Europe marked a key turning point in the history of
calligraphy. The return of classical learning and the invention of the printing press in the
15th century led to a decline in the traditional art of hand-lettering. But this time also saw
the rise of new styles, such as Italic and Gothic scripts, influenced by the humanist
movement. Calligraphy became a means of personal expression among the educated elite,
with manuals and guides published to teach the art. Important figures like Francesco Griffo
and Edward Johnston contributed to the evolution of calligraphy, blending traditional
techniques with modern style. This time shows that technological advancements can both

challenge and inspire artistic practices, leading to a dynamic relationship between tradition
and innovation.

5 In the 19th and 20th centuries, calligraphy saw a return as artists sought to reconnect
with traditional crafts in response to the industrialization and machines of society. The Arts
and Crafts Movement, led by figures like William Morris, stressed the value of handmade
objects, including beautifully crafted letters. This time also saw the rise of modern
calligraphy, which embraced a more experimental approach, mixing elements from various
styles and cultures. Todays calligraphers often combine traditional techniques with modern
design principles, resulting in a wide range of artistic expressions that challenge usual
boundaries. This evolution raises questions about the future of calligraphy in an
increasingly digital world, where the hands-on nature of hand-lettering contrasts sharply
with the efficiency of digital fonts.

6 Today, calligraphy continues to thrive as both an art form and a means of communication.
With the rise of digital technology, many calligraphers have adapted their skills to create
digital fonts and designs while still honoring the traditional techniques that have defined
the art for centuries. Workshops and courses are becoming more popular, attracting
individuals eager to learn the craft and appreciate its historical significance. The lasting
appeal of calligraphy lies in its ability to connect people across time and space, reminding us
of the power of the written word. But questions remain about how to balance preserving
traditional practices with embracing modern innovations. As calligraphy evolves, it invites
further exploration into how this ancient art form can adapt to contemporary contexts
while retaining its cultural and artistic integrity.

**paragraph number :: 1** Calligraphy, which came from the Greek words "kallos" (beauty)
and "grapho" (to write), shows a unique blend of art and communication that has greatly
changed across various societies and times. The origins of calligraphy can be traced back to
ancient societies, where it served not only to record information but also as a form of
creative expression. For example, the Egyptians used hieroglyphics, while the Chinese
developed complex writing systems that expressed both meaning and beauty. As societies
evolved, the styles and techniques of calligraphy adapted to reflect cultural values,
technological changes, and artistic trends, creating a rich historical story.

**Factual Information Questions**

1. According to paragraph 1, what does the term "calligraphy" derive from?

A. Latin words meaning "to write beautifully"

B. Greek words meaning "beauty" and "to write"

C. Egyptian hieroglyphics

D. Chinese characters

**Negative Factual Information Questions**

2. In paragraph 1, each of the following is mentioned as a purpose of calligraphy EXCEPT

A. To record information

B. To serve as a form of creative expression

C. To create religious texts

D. To reflect cultural values

**paragraph number :: 2** In ancient China, calligraphy was highly valued as one of the top
forms of art, deeply connected to philosophical and spiritual beliefs. The practice can be
traced back to the Shang Dynasty (c. 16001046 BCE), where writings on prediction bones
show early forms of Chinese characters. By the Han Dynasty (206 BCE220 CE), calligraphy
had become a respected field, with notable figures like Wang Xizhi, often called the "Sage of
Calligraphy." His works showed the smoothness and grace typical of Chinese calligraphy,
influencing generations of artists. The development of different scripts, including the Seal
Script and the Regular Script, allowed for personal expression within a structured
framework, demonstrating how calligraphy served both practical and artistic purposes.

**Inference Questions**

3. What can be inferred about the significance of Wang Xizhi in the history of calligraphy?

A. He was the first to create Chinese characters.

B. His style influenced future generations of calligraphers.

C. He primarily focused on religious texts.

D. He was not well-known outside of China.

**paragraph number :: 3** Meanwhile, in the Islamic world, calligraphy became an
important art form during the 7th century, especially as a way to transcribe the Quran. The
ban on depicting human figures in Islamic art led to the rise of calligraphy as a main artistic

expression. The Arabic script, with its flowing lines and complex designs, became a symbol
of cultural identity and religious commitment. Notable calligraphers, such as Ibn Muqlah
and Ibn al-Bawwab, developed different styles, including the Thuluth and Naskh scripts,
which are still admired today. Calligraphy was not limited to religious texts; it also adorned
architecture, ceramics, and textiles, showcasing the beauty of the written word. This artistic
tradition preserved religious texts and fostered a sense of community and shared identity
among diverse Islamic cultures.

**Rhetorical Purpose Questions**

4. Why does the author mention the ban on depicting human figures in Islamic art in
paragraph 3?

A. To highlight the limitations of Islamic art

B. To explain the rise of calligraphy as a primary form of artistic expression

C. To compare Islamic art with Western art

D. To discuss the role of religion in art

**paragraph number :: 4** The Renaissance period in Europe marked a key turning point in
the history of calligraphy. The return of classical learning and the invention of the printing
press in the 15th century led to a decline in the traditional art of hand-lettering. But this
time also saw the rise of new styles, such as Italic and Gothic scripts, influenced by the
humanist movement. Calligraphy became a means of personal expression among the
educated elite, with manuals and guides published to teach the art. Important figures like
Francesco Griffo and Edward Johnston contributed to the evolution of calligraphy, blending
traditional techniques with modern style. This time shows that technological advancements
can both challenge and inspire artistic practices, leading to a dynamic relationship between
tradition and innovation.

**Vocabulary Questions**

5. The word "elite" in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to

A. Ordinary people

B. The upper class

C. Artists

D. Scholars

**paragraph number :: 5** In the 19th and 20th centuries, calligraphy saw a return as
artists sought to reconnect with traditional crafts in response to the industrialisation and
machines of society. The Arts and Crafts Movement, led by figures like William Morris,
stressed the value of handmade objects, including beautifully crafted letters. This time also
saw the rise of modern calligraphy, which embraced a more experimental approach, mixing
elements from various styles and cultures. Todays calligraphers often combine traditional
techniques with modern design principles, resulting in a wide range of artistic expressions
that challenge usual boundaries. This evolution raises questions about the future of
calligraphy in an increasingly digital world, where the hands-on nature of hand-lettering
contrasts sharply with the efficiency of digital fonts.

**Sentence Simplification Questions**

6. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the
following text from paragraph 5?

"In the 19th and 20th centuries, calligraphy saw a return as artists sought to reconnect
with traditional crafts in response to the industrialisation and machines of society."

A. Calligraphy became popular again in the 19th and 20th centuries due to
industrialisation.

B. Artists in the 19th and 20th centuries returned to traditional crafts because of
industrialisation.

C. The Arts and Crafts Movement in the 19th and 20th centuries focused on calligraphy.

D. Calligraphy was abandoned during the industrialisation of the 19th and 20th centuries.

**paragraph number :: 6** Today, calligraphy continues to thrive as both an art form and a
means of communication. With the rise of digital technology, many calligraphers have
adapted their skills to create digital fonts and designs while still honouring the traditional
techniques that have defined the art for centuries. Workshops and courses are becoming
more popular, attracting individuals eager to learn the craft and appreciate its historical
significance. The lasting appeal of calligraphy lies in its ability to connect people across time
and space, reminding us of the power of the written word. But questions remain about how
to balance preserving traditional practices with embracing modern innovations. As
calligraphy evolves, it invites further exploration into how this ancient art form can adapt to
contemporary contexts while retaining its cultural and artistic integrity.

7. What is the main purpose of paragraph 6?

A. To discuss the decline of calligraphy in the digital age

B. To highlight the ongoing relevance and adaptation of calligraphy today

C. To compare traditional and modern calligraphy

D. To explain the historical significance of calligraphy

**Prose Summary Questions**

8. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided
below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most
important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they
express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. This
question is worth 2 points.

Calligraphy has evolved significantly throughout history, reflecting cultural values and
technological advancements.

Answer Choices

A Calligraphy originated from ancient societies and has served both practical and artistic
purposes.

B The invention of the printing press led to the decline of traditional calligraphy in Europe.

C Calligraphy in the Islamic world became a primary form of artistic expression due to
religious restrictions.

D Modern calligraphy combines traditional techniques with contemporary design
principles.

E The Arts and Crafts Movement focused solely on the revival of calligraphy.

**Insert Missing Sentence Question**

9. In paragraph 4, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows
four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added.

"Despite this decline, calligraphy remained an important skill among the educated."

Where would the sentence best fit?

The Renaissance period in Europe marked a key turning point in the history of calligraphy.
(A) The return of classical learning and the invention of the printing press in the 15th
century led to a decline in the traditional art of hand-lettering. (B) But this time also saw the
rise of new styles, such as Italic and Gothic scripts, influenced by the humanist movement.
(C) Calligraphy became a means of personal expression among the educated elite, with
manuals and guides published to teach the art. (D)

A Option A

B Option B

C Option C

D Option D

**Prose Summary Questions**

10. Directions: Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express
the most important ideas in the passage.

Calligraphy has a rich history that reflects cultural and technological changes.

Answer Choices

A Calligraphy has been a significant form of art in various cultures, including ancient China
and the Islamic world.

B The rise of digital technology has posed challenges for traditional calligraphy.

C Calligraphy has remained relevant by adapting to modern contexts while preserving its
traditional roots.

D The decline of calligraphy in Europe was solely due to the invention of the printing
press.

E Workshops and courses are increasingly popular, indicating a resurgence of interest in
calligraphy.

Answers

### Answers and Explanations

**1. According to paragraph 1, what does the term "calligraphy" derive from?**

**Answer: B. Greek words meaning "beauty" and "to write"**

**Explanation:** The passage explicitly states that the term "calligraphy" comes from the
Greek words "kallos" (beauty) and "grapho" (to write). This indicates that the correct
answer is option B, as it accurately reflects the origin of the term.

---

**2. In paragraph 1, each of the following is mentioned as a purpose of calligraphy
EXCEPT**

**Answer: C. To create religious texts**

**Explanation:** The passage mentions that calligraphy serves to record information,
express creativity, and reflect cultural values. However, it does not specifically state that
creating religious texts is a purpose of calligraphy, making option C the correct answer.

---

**3. What can be inferred about the significance of Wang Xizhi in the history of
calligraphy?**

**Answer: B. His style influenced future generations of calligraphers.**

**Explanation:** The passage describes Wang Xizhi as a notable figure whose works
influenced generations of artists. This suggests that his style had a lasting impact on the
practice of calligraphy, making option B the most accurate inference.

---

**4. Why does the author mention the ban on depicting human figures in Islamic art in
paragraph 3?**

**Answer: B. To explain the rise of calligraphy as a primary form of artistic expression**

**Explanation:** The mention of the ban on human figures serves to highlight why
calligraphy became a dominant form of artistic expression in the Islamic world. It
emphasizes the cultural context that led to the flourishing of calligraphy, making option B
the correct choice.

---

**5. The word "elite" in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to**

**Answer: B. The upper class**

**Explanation:** In this context, "elite" refers to a select group of educated individuals who
had access to the art of calligraphy. This aligns with the definition of "upper class," making
option B the best choice.

---

**6. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the
following text from paragraph 5?**

**Answer: B. Artists in the 19th and 20th centuries returned to traditional crafts because of
industrialisation.**

**Explanation:** This option succinctly captures the essence of the original sentence,
indicating that the return to traditional crafts was a response to industrialisation. It
accurately reflects the main idea without unnecessary details.

---

**Answer: B. To highlight the ongoing relevance and adaptation of calligraphy today**

**Explanation:** The paragraph discusses how calligraphy continues to thrive and adapt in
the digital age, emphasizing its relevance and the balance between traditional practices and
modern innovations. This makes option B the most fitting choice.

---

**8. Calligraphy has evolved significantly throughout history, reflecting cultural values and
technological advancements.**

**Answer Choices:**

**A. Calligraphy originated from ancient societies and has served both practical and artistic
purposes.**

**B. The invention of the printing press led to the decline of traditional calligraphy in
Europe.**

**C. Calligraphy in the Islamic world became a primary form of artistic expression due to
religious restrictions.**

**D. Modern calligraphy combines traditional techniques with contemporary design
principles.**

**Explanation:** All four options (A, B, C, D) express significant ideas presented in the
passage, making them suitable for inclusion in the summary.

---

**9. Where would the sentence best fit?**

**Answer: D. Option D**

**Explanation:** The sentence "Despite this decline, calligraphy remained an important skill
among the educated" fits best after discussing the rise of new styles and before mentioning
how calligraphy became a means of personal expression. This placement maintains the flow
of ideas regarding the status of calligraphy during the Renaissance.

---

**10. Calligraphy has a rich history that reflects cultural and technological changes.**

**Answer Choices:**

**A. Calligraphy has been a significant form of art in various cultures, including ancient
China and the Islamic world.**

**B. The rise of digital technology has posed challenges for traditional calligraphy.**

**C. Calligraphy has remained relevant by adapting to modern contexts while preserving its
traditional roots.**

**Explanation:** Options A, B, and C capture the essential themes of the passage,
highlighting the significance of calligraphy across cultures, the challenges posed by digital
technology, and its adaptability, making them the best choices for the summary. 

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