Paper, Materiality and the Archived Page

This insightful exploration encourages a deeper engagement with archival materials, highlighting the significance of paper and its role in shaping our understanding of history.

The rise of digital technologies has transformed our understanding of archival materiality, prompting a renewed focus on the physicality of documents. In Paper, Materiality and the Archived Page, the author explores how these advancements have changed our interactions with archived materials, inviting us to reconsider the significance of paper and the page in ways that have often gone unnoticed. This book challenges conventional perceptions of the archived page, urging readers to think critically about its role beyond being a mere vessel for text.

Through three compelling case studies, the book delves into the letters of iconic figures such as Greta Garbo, the chaotic archival remnants of Australian writer Eve Langley, and the correspondence and manuscripts of English poet Valentine Ackland. Each example illustrates how a focus on materiality can alter our understanding of archival research and redefine what constitutes archival 'evidence.' By examining these unique cases, the author highlights the latent possibilities inherent in the paper page itself.

Ultimately, Paper, Materiality and the Archived Page serves as a thought-provoking guide for researchers and enthusiasts alike, encouraging a deeper engagement with the physical aspects of archival materials. It advocates for a more nuanced appreciation of how the materiality of documents can enrich our understanding of history and literature, offering fresh perspectives on the nature of archival evidence.