Manuscript vs Inscription
Manuscripts and inscriptions are two types of written works, with some differences in the way they are created. Inscriptions are pieces of material that have been engraved or carved into a surface, such as coins or metal tablets. In contrast, manuscripts are documents that have been written by hand, typically on paper, before being sent for printing.
Key Takeaways
- Inscriptions are engraved or carved into a material, while manuscripts are handwritten or manually typed documents.
- Inscriptions tend to have a longer lifespan due to their durability and resistance to wear, while manuscripts may degrade over time if not properly preserved.
- It is more difficult to alter inscriptions since they are engraved, whereas manuscripts can be changed or edited more easily.
What is an Inscription?
An inscription is a piece of material that has been engraved or carved with letters or symbols. Historically, people used sharp tools to inscribe messages or documents into stones, metal tablets, or copper plates before the invention of paper. An engraved inscription is called an epigraph, while an epitaph is a specific type of inscription found on monuments or tombstones in memory of someone. Inscriptions are long-lasting and difficult to change or alter once they have been made.
Inscriptions can also refer to short messages in an autograph or a dedication of a piece of artwork to someone or something.
What is a Manuscript?
A manuscript is a document that has been written or typed by hand. Before the invention of printing, all documents were manuscripts, created on a variety of materials such as paper, scrolls, or even palm leaves in ancient India. Illuminated manuscripts are a specific type of manuscript that includes pictures, border decorations, and illustrations. However, manuscripts can be susceptible to damage from weather, animal attacks, or improper storage, making it difficult to preserve them for long periods.
The oldest known manuscript is an Arabic document.
What is the difference between Manuscript and Inscription?
The main differences between manuscripts and inscriptions are:
• Definition:
– Inscriptions are documents with engraved or carved letters or symbols.
– Manuscripts are handwritten or manually typed documents.
• Durability:
– Inscriptions have a long lifespan due to their resistance to wear and damage.
– Manuscripts may degrade over time if not properly preserved.
• Materials used:
– Inscriptions are made on materials such as stones, copper plates, metal tablets, tombstones, or memorial monuments.
– Manuscripts are created on materials that are soft and easy to write on, such as paper or scrolls.
• Alterations:
– Inscriptions are difficult to change or alter due to their engraved nature.
– Manuscripts can be edited or altered more easily since they are hand-written or typed.
