What was one effect of the invention of the printing press in the late Middle Ages?

The invention of the printing press in the late Middle Ages significantly contributed to the spread of literacy and new ideas. Prior to this invention, books were copied by hand, which made them scarce and expensive. The printing press allowed for the mass production of books, making literature, religious texts, and new scientific ideas more accessible to a broader audience. As a result, literacy rates improved as more people could afford to read and had access to written works. This accessibility facilitated the dissemination of new thoughts, including humanism, the Renaissance ideas, and the Reformation, which transformed culture and society in profound ways. This development fostered a more informed populace capable of questioning traditional authorities and exploring diverse perspectives, thereby contributing to significant societal changes during this time.