Codicology and Paleography: A relational model

Abstract

The present article explores the study of Greek and Latin manuscripts, focusing on both
material and textual aspects. It proposes a relational model rooted in material philology,
treating manuscripts as three-dimensional objects to be analyzed through their physical and
textual components. The model emphasizes relationships between entities such as ‘objects’,
‘object aggregates’, and ‘object fiat parts’, accounting for their evolution over time. The
use of Top-Level Ontologies, including the Basic Formal Ontology (BFO), is highlighted as
essential for structuring these relationships and facilitating comprehensive analysis. This approach
enables a dynamic understanding of manuscripts by incorporating time, process, and
the roles of participants involved in their creation. Furthermore, the article advocates for
updated terminology and the development of digital tools, such as the Manuscribus platform,
to support the transcription and critical study of manuscripts in a structured and accessible
way.

Key-words: Paleography, Codicology, Relational Model, Ontologies.