MEDVL 6102 - Latin Paleography

(crosslisted)
(also LATIN 7222)

Spring. 4 credits.

This course is an introduction to and survey of Latin scripts from Roman antiquity through the early Renaissance, with an emphasis on the identification, localization, and reading of scripts. Class meetings will combine practical study of Latin scripts through medieval manuscripts in the Kroch library, facsimiles, and online digital reproductions with instruction in the cultural-historical background to manuscript production, library practices, and bibliographical resources. Students will also be introduced to basic techniques for codicological description and the principles of textual criticism. There will be a mid-term and a final exam. A solid understanding of Latin grammar and morphology is a prerequisite for the course, and students in doubt about their readiness should consult with the instructor.

A. Hicks.