Ancient Roots:
* Ancient Greek: While not a comma as we know it, the Greeks used a small dot (·) to mark the end of a phrase. This was called a "distinguishing mark" and helped with reading.
* Ancient Romans: Romans used a similar dot, called the "punctum," for both separating words and marking the end of a phrase.
The Birth of the Comma:
* Medieval Scribes: During the Middle Ages, scribes started using a variety of symbols for punctuation, including the comma-like "virgula suspensiva" (a slanted line). This mark initially signified a pause but could also indicate a change in thought.
* Aldus Manutius: A prominent Venetian printer in the 15th century, Aldus Manutius, is often credited with popularizing the comma as we know it today. He adapted a diagonal mark that was already in use for marking pauses, making it more curved and resembling a comma.
Standardization:
* 16th-17th Centuries: As printing became more common, the use of the comma spread. However, its exact use was inconsistent.
* 18th-19th Centuries: Grammar books and dictionaries started to standardize punctuation rules, including the comma. This helped establish a more consistent usage.
In Summary:
The comma evolved from a simple dot used by ancient Greeks and Romans into the familiar punctuation mark we use today. It's a testament to the gradual development of language and writing, influenced by scribes, printers, and grammarians throughout history.