B5161 - History of Writing and Papyri (1) (LM)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to read, transcribe and date the different types of papyrus texts and documents with competence, accuracy and methodological correctness. They will be able to identify and decipher the different types of writing on papyrus and know their historical evolution. They will be able to use the most advanced methods and techniques, both traditional and digital, applicable to this aspect of papyrological research.

Course contents

The course introduces to the paleography of Greek papyri and to the history of the ancient book.

A good knowledge of Ancient Greek is required for participation.

The course will outline the history of writing from the Hellenistic period through the Byzantine era, distinguishing between literary, semi-literary, and documentary genres and text types.

Special attention will be given to the analysis of formal features such as format, text layout, and script styles in both literary and documentary texts.

The course will include practical exercises in deciphering significant examples from different periods historical periods and genres.

Readings/Bibliography

• E. Turner - P. J. Parsons, Greek Manuscripts of the Ancient World, second edition [BICS Suppl. 46], London 1987, pp. 1–23.
• G. Cavallo, Greek and Latin Writing in the Papyri, in: R. S. Bagnall (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Papyrology, Oxford University Press, Oxford 2009, pp. 101–148.
• W. Johnson, The Ancient Book, in: R. S. Bagnall (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Papyrology, Oxford University Press, Oxford 2009, pp. 256–281.
• J.-L. Fournet, Disposition et réalisation graphique des lettres et des pétitions protobyzantines : Pour une paléographie « signifiante » des papyrus documentaires, in: J. Frösén - T. Purola - E. Salmenkivi (edd.), Proceedings of the 24. Congress of Papyrology, Helsinki, 1–7 August, 2004 [Comm. Hum. Litt. Vol. 122], Helsinki 2007, pp. 353–367.

Additional bibliographical materials and images of papyri will be provided by the instructor on VIRTUALE throughout the course.

Students who are unable to attend classes must agree on an alternative program with the instructor. In addition to the materials provided on VIRTUALE, they are required to study:

• C. H. Roberts, Greek Literary Hands, 350 B.C. – A.D. 400, Oxford 1955
• E. Turner - P. J. Parsons, Greek Manuscripts of the Ancient World, second edition [BICS Suppl. 46], London 1987.

Teaching methods

Classes will be delivered both in lecture format (ex cathedra) and as seminars. Active student participation is strongly encouraged.

Assessment methods

The exam consists of an oral examination covering the topics discussed in class and the assigned readings, and including a test requiring the student to identify the text type and date of a sample handwriting.

There are seven examination sessions scheduled across the academic year, taking place in the following months: February, March, April, May, July, September, and November.

Intermediate assessments may be offered during the course and can contribute to the final grade.

The exam is considered passed when the student demonstrates a sound understanding of the core concepts of the discipline and is able to correctly decipher, identify, and date the assigned text.

Evaluation Criteria:

· Excellent marks will be awarded to students who show outstanding knowledge of both the literature and paleographical analysis, and who can apply this knowledge independently and critically.

· Good evaluations will be assigned to students who demonstrate solid analytical skills, though with a more mnemonic approach.

· Passing grades will be given to students who show a basic understanding of the subject, with minor errors or gaps.

· Failure will result from serious deficiencies in both theoretical knowledge and practical analysis skills.

Teaching tools

Classes will be supported by PowerPoint presentations. Original papyri from the Bologna collections will also be studied. All texts discussed during the course will be made available on VIRTUALE.

Students with learning disorders or disabilities are encouraged to contact the relevant university office responsible as soon as possible:

https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students .

Requests for accommodations must be submitted at least 15 days before the exam date. The professor will evaluate suitability of the proposed adjustments, considering also the course objectives.

Office hours

See the website of Fabian Lothar Walter Reiter