In the early part of this century, there was a tendency to use them to an inconsiderate extent, owing principally to German imitators like Carlyle and others, who adopted, in a somewhat modified form, the German method of capitalizing words. Just at present there seems to be a reaction setting in, and there is a tendency among some of our leading publishing houses to dispense with their use as much as possible. In democratic America, there has always been a somewhat unreasonable fear of official titles, and when they are used, they are frequently belittled with small letters. This has had a tendency to encourage the use of small letters in many words that should properly commence with capitals.
There is no doubt that a judicious use of capitals assists the eye very much in reading what another has written, and in understanding a writer’s meaning. While, on the other hand, an injudicious use lessens their value, and disfigures a printed page.
Although the taste and judgment of each writer may be consulted in the capitalization of some words to which he may assign a special meaning, there are a number of well established principles, sanctioned by long usage, that should govern all writers in the use of capital letters.
CAPITALS.
Rule I. Sentences.—The first word of every sentence should commence with a capital.
EXAMPLES.
“The price we challenge for ourselves is given us.”—Schiller.
“The elder brother of Franklin ventured to start a newspaper, though warned that America could never support two newspapers.”—William Russel.
“Trust in yourself, and you have learnt to live.”—Goethe.