Palaeography for Family and Local Historians : Book Review

"Palaeography for Family and Local Historians" written by Hilary Marshall is an extensive guide designed to assist readers in decoding and comprehending historical documents. This book specifically caters to family and local historians who frequently come across old records and manuscripts during their research.

Marshall begins by emphasizing the significance of palaeography in family and local history research, highlighting how understanding archaic handwriting and document formats can unveil valuable information. The author covers various aspects of palaeography, including abbreviations, letter forms, and punctuation, providing lucid examples and explanations throughout the book.

One of the notable strengths of this book is its practical approach. Marshall walks readers through numerous case studies, demonstrating how to analyze and interpret different types of historical documents. By including authentic documents from different time periods, readers are able to immediately apply their newfound knowledge, which adds authenticity and enhances the learning experience.

Additionally, Marshall goes beyond the mere deciphering of handwriting, delving into the historical context of the documents themselves. This provides readers with a deeper understanding of the material and helps them create a more accurate representation of the lives and events depicted in the records.

In conclusion, "Palaeography for Family and Local Historians" is an invaluable resource for individuals interested in genealogy or researching local history. It equips readers with the necessary tools and knowledge to decode old documents and comprehend their significance. Hilary Marshall's expertise and practical approach make this book an essential addition to any historian's library. Whether one is a novice or experienced historian, this comprehensive guide is sure to enhance their understanding and interpretation of historical records.

What are readers saying?

The book titled "Palaeography for Family and Local Historians" authored by Hilary Marshall has garnered positive reviews from readers. The book is lauded for its clear and concise approach to palaeography, the study of old handwriting. Many reviewers appreciate Marshall's ability to explain complex concepts in a manner that is easily comprehensible, catering to both beginners and experienced researchers. Readers find the guidance provided by the book on deciphering historical documents such as wills, parish registers, and court records to be valuable.

One aspect that resonates with readers is the book's practicality. Marshall offers numerous examples of handwriting samples, allowing readers to practice and enhance their skills. This hands-on approach is particularly advantageous for those interested in genealogy and local history, as it aids in the interpretation of primary source documents.

Reviewers also appreciate the inclusion of historical context in the book. In addition to teaching palaeography techniques, Marshall provides insights into the historical periods and events that shaped different handwriting styles. This additional information is considered invaluable in understanding the context of the documents under study.

While the book is highly regarded overall, it is worth noting that some readers feel it may not delve deeply enough into palaeography for advanced researchers. Although it serves as an excellent starting point, a few reviewers suggest consulting additional resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Overall, "Palaeography for Family and Local Historians" by Hilary Marshall is praised by readers for its accessibility, practical approach, and inclusion of historical context. It is regarded as a valuable resource for individuals interested in deciphering and comprehending historical handwriting for genealogical and local history research.

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