The use of italic letters to accentuate has become common practice in the computer age. They convey movement and dynamics, addresses the emotional experience of reading and reminds of handwriting. This lively characteristic, which once resulted from the movement of the hand, is visibly lost when words are simply tilted by a mouse click. In order to impart basic knowledge about italics, the author has gathered design patterns of italic scripts and presents the tangible form, characteristics and functions of "italic nature." In addition, he deals intensively with the historical development of italics. This monograph is the first detailed treatise on this typographical topic, and is aimed in particular at all those who deal with letters professionally or privately.