How and Why to Do Things with Eighteenth-Century Manuscripts

This Element explores eighteenth-century manuscript forms, functions, and challenges, with a focus on literary activity in handwritten manuscripts from 1730-1820. It includes case studies of verse miscellanies, correspondence, and printed literary works, and considers issues of manuscript remediation in the digital age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element delves into the intricate world of eighteenth-century manuscript forms, exploring their roles within the literary landscape of their time and the complexities involved in studying these manuscripts today. Drawing upon a rich blend of literary studies and book history, Levy and Schellenberg provide a comprehensive guide to the various forms of literary activity conducted in handwritten manuscripts during the first era of print dominance, spanning from 1730 to 1820.

The Element begins with an introductory survey of sociable literary culture and its manuscript manifestations, setting the stage for the subsequent case studies. These case studies delve into three distinct manuscript types: the verse miscellany, the familiar correspondence, and manuscripts of literary works that were printed. Through detailed analysis and thoughtful exploration, the authors shed light on the rich insights and discoveries that can be gained from studying these manuscript genres.

In the final section, the Element addresses the challenges and practices of manuscript study in the modern era. It focuses particularly on digital remediation, exploring the methods and techniques used to preserve, digitize, and make accessible these invaluable historical documents. The authors discuss the ethical considerations and considerations involved in manuscript remediation, highlighting the importance of preserving the authenticity and integrity of the original materials.

To conclude, this Element offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of eighteenth-century manuscript forms, their functions in the literary landscape of their time, and the ongoing practices of manuscript study. By combining literary analysis with a deep understanding of book history, Levy and Schellenberg provide a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike. The title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core, ensuring wider accessibility to this important scholarship.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 5 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108926133
Edition number: New ed