Author ORCID Identifier

0009-0007-1080-5071

Date of Award

5-1-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Anthropology

First Advisor

Nicola Sharratt

Second Advisor

Edward Christie

Third Advisor

Louis A. Ruprecht Jr.

Abstract

Materiality is a significant component of medieval manuscript studies, but there is little research that approaches the subject from an anthropological-archaeological perspective. This project examines the Junius Manuscript (Bodleian Library MS. Junius 11) from its initial creation to its modern-day digitization. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection, this archaeological approach constructs the manuscript’s life story. Examination of material interventions within the manuscript, such as holes, writing/notations, and creases offers insight into what material traces are left behind on manuscripts and what these can tell us about human interactions in relation to the object. In addition, this thesis considers the concept of digital materiality and the digitization of manuscripts to interrogate the nuances of digital accessibility within manuscript studies. An archaeological approach to the comprehensive life history of manuscripts contributes to the articulation of new perspectives on manuscript materiality and their social lives, considering these objects as artifacts rather than solely textual sources.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/36967306

File Upload Confirmation

1

Download

Share

COinS