Parchment

Definition

Parchment is a writing surface made from animal skin, specifically prepared for the purpose of writing or printing. It was commonly used in the ancient and medieval worlds as a durable and high-quality alternative to papyrus and paper, playing a critical role in the development of writing systems by providing a reliable medium for recording information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parchment became widely used around the 2nd century BCE and was especially prevalent during the Middle Ages for creating books and important documents.
2. The process of making parchment involves cleaning, stretching, and drying animal skins, typically from sheep, goats, or calves, resulting in a smooth surface for writing.
3. Unlike papyrus, which can deteriorate over time, parchment is more durable and can last for centuries when properly cared for.
4. Parchment allowed for the development of illuminated manuscripts, where artists added colorful decorations and illustrations to enhance the written text.
5. The decline in the use of parchment began with the invention of paper-making techniques in Europe during the 12th century, which offered a cheaper alternative for writing surfaces.

Review Questions

• How did parchment influence the development of early writing systems?
  • Parchment provided a sturdy and reliable surface that greatly enhanced the ability to record information accurately. Its durability compared to other materials like papyrus allowed texts to be preserved for longer periods. This reliability contributed to the growth of literature and record-keeping practices in various cultures, thus fostering advancements in early writing systems.
• Compare and contrast parchment with other writing materials such as papyrus and paper regarding their usage and durability.
  • Parchment is more durable than papyrus, which is made from plant fibers and can deteriorate quickly under certain conditions. While papyrus was widely used in ancient Egypt and later cultures, parchment gained prominence in medieval Europe due to its longevity and smooth writing surface. Paper eventually became more popular due to its lower cost and lighter weight, but parchment remains valuable for its historical significance and use in high-quality manuscripts.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of parchment in preserving knowledge throughout history.
  • Parchment played a crucial role in the preservation of knowledge as it was used extensively for manuscripts that included literature, religious texts, and historical records. Its durability allowed these works to survive through centuries, contributing to the continuity of cultural heritage. The transition from scrolls to codices made possible by parchment further facilitated access to written information, allowing for greater dissemination of ideas that shaped societies throughout history.

Related terms

vellum: A finer quality of parchment made from the skin of young animals, often used for high-end manuscripts and documents.

codex: An early form of a book, made up of several sheets of parchment or paper folded and bound together, replacing scrolls for many written works.

manuscript: A document written by hand, often on parchment or vellum, which became significant in preserving literature, religious texts, and historical records.