Since 2007, the Script Union of Europe (SUE) has brought together European scholars of scripts to cooperate on issues of common concern. The union was founded on the premise that, despite their differences, all scripts have something in common, and that by working together scholars can learn more about each script and its origins.
The SUE has also created a number of educational resources for script scholars and interested members of the public. These resources include a website with information on all European scripts, as well as a series of online tutorials that teach the basics of reading and writing each script.
In the early days of script union in Europe, many old books, papers, and scrolls were brought together in order to create a more unified system of writing. This was done in an attempt to make communication between different regions and languages easier. While there were some initial successes, the project ultimately failed due to various political and cultural differences. Today, many of these old documents can be found in museums and archives around the continent.
One of the most famous examples of a unified European script is the Rotulus Virtembergensis, or “Roll of Württemberg”. This document was created in the late 8th century AD and contains a mix of Old Latin, Lombardic, and Carolingian scripts. It is currently housed at the Herzog August Bibliothek in Wolfenbüttel, Germany.
Another notable example is the Codex Amiatinus, which is thought to be the oldest surviving manuscript of the complete Bible in Latin. The text was copied by monks from Wearmouth-Jarrow Abbey in Northumbria, England during the early 8th century AD. The manuscript is now on display at the Laurentian Library in Florence, Italy.
While the unification of scripts ultimately failed, it did help to pave the way for later advances in communication and cooperation between different regions of Europe. And nowadays, we can still appreciate the beauty of these old manuscripts and scrolls!
While the unification of European scripts ultimately failed, it did leave behind some lasting legacies. Many of the writing systems used today are based on those that were developed during the early days of script union. In addition, the project helped to promote literacy and cultural exchange throughout the continent. Thanks to these accomplishments, we are still able to enjoy the beauty of ancient manuscripts like the Rotulus Virtembergensis and Codex Amiatinus today.
…