Epigraphy Studies explores the world of inscriptions, texts carved into stone, metal, and pottery, and how these writings unlock secrets of ancient civilizations. Epigraphy offers direct insights into past societies, revealing details about political landscapes and cultural practices. For example, the location and purpose of an inscription, like a royal decree or religious dedication, can illuminate power dynamics and religious beliefs, providing a unique lens through which to view history.
The book is structured to guide readers through the core principles and methodologies of epigraphic analysis, and then progresses to specific case studies from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Mesopotamia. These examples illustrate the challenges and rewards of working with epigraphic material, such as deciphering ancient writing systems and understanding the socio-political context of their creation.
This approach emphasizes that inscriptions are not merely texts, but objects embedded within specific cultural contexts, offering a more holistic understanding of the past.
