Teaching code

4S007406

Teacher

Laura Albiero

Coordinator

Laura Albiero

Credits

6

Language

Italian

Scientific Disciplinary Sector (SSD)

M-STO/09 - PALEOGRAPHY

Period

CuCi 2 A, CuCi 2 B

Courses Single

Authorized

Lessons timetable Moodle Seminars 0

Learning objectives

Introduction to the subjects: what’s diplomatics? What’s a diplomatic document? The basic forms of the document. Reading, exegesis, dating, transcription of the documents. Moreover, the course intends to suggest some standing points and critical reflection tools about structures and specific languages of medieval documentary sources, with particular attention to dynamics that qualify sources production in changing phases of political and institutional systems.

Prerequisites and basic notions

A basic knowledge of Latin (secondary school level or equivalent) is required, particularly with regard to core grammatical and morphosyntactic structures. A general familiarity with medieval history and the fundamentals of written culture is desirable, though not strictly necessary. No prior training in palaeography is required.

Program

Introduction to the Discipline
- Definition, scope, and aims of Latin palaeography
- Relationship with codicology, diplomatics, and cultural history
- Contexts of manuscript production and circulation
History of Latin Script
- From Roman scripts to the Middle Ages
- Scripts of graphic particularism
- Epigraphic and rustic capitals, uncial, half-uncial
- Caroline minuscule
‘- Gothic’ scripts
- Humanistic scripts
- Chancery and mercantesca scripts
Methods of Analysis and the Palaeographical Method
- Observation of graphic forms
- Use of repertories and reference tools
Elements for Dating and Localization
- Ductus and cursivity
- Letter forms
- Ligatures and abbreviations
Reading Latin Scripts
- Practical exercises on manuscript reproductions

Bibliography

Didactic methods

The course will be delivered primarily through lectures, with continuous support from teaching aids designed to facilitate the understanding and analysis of scripts. Classes will be accompanied by PowerPoint presentations, palaeographical plates and charts, as well as the use of digitized manuscripts available on online platforms and digital libraries. Students will also be provided with handouts in PDF format, including theoretical summaries, reference sheets, and practice materials.
Particular attention will be given to the practical component, through guided exercises in reading and transcription during the classes. Where possible, the course may also include a study visit to a holding library, allowing for the consultation and direct examination of manuscript codices.

Learning assessment procedures

The final assessment consists of an oral examination. Students are required to demonstrate the ability to read Latin texts accurately in at least two different types of book script, as well as to answer questions relating to the history of writing and the theoretical content of the course.
For non-attending students, the examination format remains unchanged; however, the study materials (plates and reference texts) must be agreed in advance with the professor.

Evaluation criteria

Assessment will take into account the ability to recognize different types of script, to read book scripts fluently and without hesitation, and to demonstrate knowledge of the historical aspects of written culture.

Criteria for the composition of the final grade

The final grade will be expressed on a thirty-point scale and will be calculated as the average of the reading and recognizing, and the responses to historical and methodological questions.

Exam language

Italiano