Latin texts in history: textual transmission, textual criticism and editing

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

How have ancient books been preserved, and what did it take to make them accessible in modern editions? In this course, we will discuss all aspects of the material and intellectual process that links ancient literature to modern scholarship. Books were written on papyrus and copied onto parchment or paper multiple times until the arrival of the printing press. Over time, the ancient texts themselves changed: they were rewritten and reread, or simply copied with errors. We will then look into the many facets of the process that endeavors to recover the original text: manuscript studies, philology, textual criticism and editorial techniques. We will address both traditional editions and new forms, such as various forms of online editions, as well as tools for the editor. Coursework will include many practical exercises; finally, we will work towards a "real" edition of a short Latin text. The course is suitable for students with intermediate or advanced Latin knowledge. No prior knowledge of paleography or codicology is necessary. Students will be offered an overview of the textual history of classical texts, as well as practical knowledge and practical experience in textual criticism and editing.