Ancient people used metal, wood and stones to keep valuable information. The main challenge with the scrolls and other ancient materials used in writing is that presently people have to study to interpret the writings. The study of inscriptions is defined as epigraphy. Realizing the challenges involved in translating and interpreting ancient inscriptions, this website covers information about epigraphy.
Epigraphy study involves science to identify graphemes, clarify their meaning and classify their uses according to cultural context and dates. Furthermore, scientific study involves concluding ancient writers and their writings. Through epigraphy, you can also identify the artistic value of literary compositions. This website covers reliable information captured in the following articles:
Languages Used in Early Inscription
Inscribed information preserved by ancient people is important for historians. The inscription provides information about the lifestyle, culture, languages and other features of ancient people. However, to accurately interpret the inscribed content, epigraphers must understand languages used by the writers. This section of this website highlights some of the most common languages epigraphers come across. The languages highlighted include the following:
- Sumerian
- Hieroglyphics
- Ancient Greek
- Old Chinese
- Aramaic
- Latin
- Tamil
Factors to consider when Deciphering Ancient Inscriptions
In ancient times, valuable information was kept on hard surfaces. The information was written in the language spoken in the region. As a result, epigraphers have used the carving to identify languages used in various kingdoms and locations. However, to accurately interpret inscribed information, historians have to keep important features in mind. This section highlights some of the factors epigraphers must reflect on when studying ancient inscriptions. The elements highlighted in this post include the following:
- Correctly identifying the writing system used
- Dating the written materials
- Referring the content to related language
- Understand the culture of people who lived in the region
Importance of Early Inscriptions and Epigraphy
Historians have used the anciently inscribed content to explain more about ancient people. The inscriptions are relevant to the current society as they provide information about the culture of different communities. Some of the importance of epigraphy highlighted in this article are:
- Proper dating of events
- Understanding ancient culture and beliefs
- Learning the social and economic life of ancient people
- Learning new languages
How to Use Information in This Website
If you are interested in epigraphy, this site can be your ideal partner. You will get valuable information about epigraphy and early inscriptions through the engaging and informative content in the sections mentioned above. Click the articles to read them and also ensure you bookmark this website for future reference.