Clerical script is a style of handwriting that emerged in the early Middle Ages, primarily used by scribes in Europe. It was developed from earlier scripts and aimed to improve legibility and speed in writing. This script features clear, rounded letters and is often associated with the production of manuscripts and official documents. The use of clerical script became widespread in monasteries and later in administrative settings. It played a significant role in the preservation of texts and the dissemination of knowledge during a time when literacy was limited. Over time, clerical script influenced the development of other writing styles, including Gothic script.