When transcribing ancient manuscripts, the decipherment process often requires an element of guesswork.
In structured sentences, the context of the sentence aids in deciphering challenging words.
However, proper names defy context; they stand as independent entities that cannot be inferred from the surrounding text. Merely guessing proper names carries the risk of misinterpretation and uncertainty. Therefore, it is imperative to employ suitable methods to ensure the accuracy of readings.
- Multiple Instances of Mention: This strategy leverages the repeated occurrence of names within a family or community over a span of years. For instance, parents may have several children over a decade, with their names recorded in the church register. Similarly, siblings residing in the same locality, sharing the same surname, offer multiple points of reference for cross-referencing and clarification. This not only confirms name accuracy but also aids in recognizing familial relationships and historical patterns.
- Individual Letter Analysis: This method involves precise analysis of individual letters or letter combinations such as "-er-," "-ung-," or "-en-." Instances are sought where the handwriting exhibits similar indecipherable loops, yet the reading is evident from the context. Identifying these instances allows the palaeographer to ensure precise interpretation, crucial for deciphering potentially difficult or varying letter forms, thus establishing a reliable foundation for transcription.
- Peer-Review: Transcribers often revise their readings multiple times, seeking input from colleagues to minimize errors.
- Distant Church Register Entries: When a name proves challenging to decipher in a burial or marriage entry, the age of the individual often provides crucial clues. Based on this age, the appropriate baptismal entry can be located. This entry often dates back several decades and might have been documented by a different clergyman with legible handwriting. This approach helps resolve uncertainties in reading older entries.