Glossing Practice: Comparative Perspectives

This volume is the first to focus specifically on comparative glossing, bringing together new research on glossing practices from traditions in both the West and East Asia, with a focus on Japan. It explores the relation between glossing in the medieval manuscript tradition and the modern linguistic use of the gloss, presenting a sample of the most recent studies on glossing as it is practiced across different parts of the world. Glosses are a cross-cultural phenomenon anchored in language and serve numerous functions, from basic grammatical commentary to wider exegetical discussions, in the transfer of knowledge from one linguistic area to another.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

This groundbreaking volume is the first of its kind to dedicate itself exclusively to the study of comparative glossing, bringing together cutting-edge research on glossing practices from both Western and Eastern Asian traditions, with a special emphasis on Japan. It also explores the intricate relationship between glossing in the medieval manuscript tradition and its modern linguistic applications. With its primary objective of presenting a comprehensive sample of the most recent studies on glossing across diverse regions worldwide, this book highlights the remarkable similarities and shared characteristics observed across different times and places.

Glosses, in their diverse manifestations, serve a multitude of purposes and fulfill various roles depending on their historical context and geographical location. They transcend cultural boundaries and emerge as a cross-cultural phenomenon rooted in language. Glosses are the tangible embodiment of the hermeneutic processes involved in the transfer of knowledge from one linguistic area to another. They play a vital role at every stage of this intricate transfer, encompassing not only basic grammatical commentary but also broader exegetical discussions.

The study of comparative glossing offers a unique perspective on the evolution and development of linguistic practices across different cultures and time periods. By examining the similarities and differences in glossing styles and functions, scholars can gain insights into the complex interplay between language, culture, and interpretation. This volume serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and scholars interested in exploring the multifaceted world of glossing, providing a comprehensive examination of this important linguistic phenomenon.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793612809