Ancient vs Modern
Ancient vs Modern

Ancient vs Modern

In ancient times I believe to persevere information was the practice of something being rediscovered and adapted on. The materials that were being used for the cuneiform tablets ,scrolls, palm leafs and many more discussed in the video links were utilized to hold ideas and stand the test of time . In writing or scribing on these items many wanted to get their ideas across and showcased in a massive or intimate way . For example The Rosetta Stone was massive which is something conformed  into a book or program you can access online in modern day . In ancient times to preserve the information that was entailed on a massive landscape conveys how important this document was . As they wanted it in every important temple.For the cuneiform tablets the practices were used in schooling which is a more intimate setting as students were writing letters from watching their teachers . 

  On the other hand in the modern age we have a quick and easy way of saving and sharing information. Everything is stored on the cloud , in files or even a usb . All this information can be sent through emails  or a quick text; it’s not as secret as ancient  times . We have so much exposure to ancient information whether it’s on the internet or in a museum and public library . If not we can find out where to find it via the internet. 

  I think emails , and shared documents are modes of textual circulation that we have today that will stand the test of time.  Emails have a way of resurfacing no matter if you delete it, code it in a language that only you and whomever you share it with can decode. Somehow they are always found. For recent examples every time a president or any public figure tries to hide emails , they are always found later down the line . Emails are a frequent mode that is used by students’ parents and anyone in any profession. This practice is common and learned at a young age. I learned how to send an email in 6th grade. I was 11 at the time. I am now 22 now still sending emails properly so emails are standing the test of time . As for shared documents just like emails these documents can be found by someone who you didn’t intend on finding it. This is a cycle that will continue to grow as we learn new information daily , others will want to access these shared documents. 

  Interacting with the format (tablet, stone, scroll) takes patience and dedication. For a reader or a writer this will impact how valuable they deem these items and to handle them with care.  The motions and abilities that come with interacting with these formats take the same delicacy. Lastly, digital technology is home to a lot of valuable information. The role that digital technology has in how these texts continue to be studied and preserved is a significant one. It keeps the form of these texts in an authentic way , and it displays the text for a wider audience . 

2 Comments

  1. Hi Diamond, I share similar view that modern way of sharing and preserving information is quicker and easier. Emails of course is hard to delete, and they are sure to be stored somewhere like cloud. In ancient times whichever methods is used they can be lost or destroyed, and the information might not be available again. Technology has come a far way and it is the best method for preserving information. It’s because of technology we are able to see so many different methods ancient people used in recording, preserving and sharing their information. Its carefully preserved so that we are aware of the unique and innovative way these ancient people were able to use natural resources like stones, palm leaves among other things to record, preserve and share their information.

  2. Diamond, I appreciate your reflection on scale here — how some objects are designed to be seen and interacted with at a large scale while others feel more intimate and personal. I wonder if that’s one reason why the codex ended up becoming so popular?

    Your point about emails made me laugh. It’s definitely true that nothing on the internet seems to truly disappear, though I wonder whether anyone is doing any meaningful archive of email conversations in the same way folks preserved letters…

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