Dividing Texts

The Indian subcontinent has a rich history of manuscript production, marked by an impressive volume of works created over extensive geographical regions and long periods. Dividing Texts focuses on Northern India and Nepal from 800 to 1300 CE, particularly examining manuscripts that feature Sanskrit texts. This study delves into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of manuscript creation: visual organization. By understanding how scribes utilized various visual strategies, readers gain insight into the complexity of these historical documents.

Scribes employed a range of techniques to visually differentiate texts and their sections, such as chapters and sub-chapters. These strategies included the use of space on the folio, diverse writing styles, various symbols, and color application known as 'rubrication.' The combination of these elements not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the manuscripts but also facilitated easier navigation for readers. Dividing Texts provides a detailed description of these visual strategies and analyzes their implementation across the selected regions.

Moreover, the study explores the significance of these manuscripts in ritual contexts, revealing how they were utilized in different cultural practices across India and Nepal. By shedding light on the production and use of these manuscripts, Dividing Texts contributes to a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural landscape of the region, offering valuable insights into the interplay between text and visual representation.