In calligraphy, what function do serifs serve?

Serifs serve the critical function of enhancing legibility in calligraphy. These small lines or strokes at the ends of letters can guide the reader’s eye along the text, making it easier to distinguish between individual characters, especially in large bodies of text. By providing visual contrast and direction, serifs help improve readability, particularly at smaller sizes or lower contrasts.

In addition to their legibility function, serifs can also play decorative roles; however, their primary and most important purpose relates to facilitating clear communication through improved clarity in letterforms. While serifs may have an aesthetic appeal and can create a distinctive style or feel in a piece of writing, the foundational goal in utilizing them is to ensure that the text is easily readable, particularly in formal or lengthy passages.