Historically:
* Speed and Efficiency: Cursive was developed to write faster and more fluidly than printing. This was crucial in a time before computers and typewriters.
* Legibility: While cursive can be difficult to read for beginners, it was designed to be a flowing script that was easier to read quickly than individual printed letters.
* Formality: Cursive was seen as more formal than printing, particularly in business and official documents.
Today:
* Reduced Practicality: With the rise of computers and digital communication, cursive has become less important for everyday use.
* Education Focus: While some argue for its continued importance for handwriting fluency, cursive has largely been de-emphasized in modern education systems, particularly in the United States.
* Personal Expression: Many still find cursive a beautiful and satisfying form of writing, using it for personal notes, journals, and creative projects.
In Summary:
Cursive's primary purpose has shifted from being a necessary skill for daily communication to a more personal or artistic endeavor. While it's no longer essential for most, it still holds value for its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and potential to enhance handwriting fluency.