The problem of reducing language to writing and conversely that of interpreting written signs as language has been resolved through the development of different writing systems. This illustrated textbook introduces the major writing systems of the world (from cuneiform to English spelling) and analyzes their structure and function. It includes a review of the history of writing and a discussion of the literate mind and society.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
1. What is writing?; 2. The basic options: meaning and sound; 3. Signs of words; 4. Signs of syllables; 5. Signs of segments; 6. Consonants and vowels; 7. Vowel incorporation; 8. Analysis and interpretation; 9. Mixed systems; 10. History of writing; 11. Psycholinguistics of writing; 12. Sociolinguistics of writing; Appendix: Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 1.
