Tracing the Shift from Inscription to Narrative: Linguistic Tools in Historical Textual Interpretation

Abstract

This study explores the role of linguistics in reading historical documents, from early inscriptions to modern narrative forms. Language is not merely a medium that records history; it is a constitutive tool for shaping identity, meaning, authority, and collective memory.

 The research applies a linguistic-historical approach, analyzing inscriptions, manuscripts, official documents, and contemporary historical novels. Findings indicate that inscriptions served as instruments of political legitimacy and religious authority, while manuscripts contributed to the construction of cultural and scientific narratives. Official documents reveal the tension between political discourse and popular memory, whereas the novel reinterprets history through aesthetic and resistant language.

This study explores the role of linguistics in reading historical documents, from early inscriptions to modern narrative forms. Language is not merely a medium that records history; it is a constitutive tool for shaping identity, meaning, authority, and collective memory.

 The research applies a linguistic-historical approach, analyzing inscriptions, manuscripts, official documents, and contemporary historical novels. Findings indicate that inscriptions served as instruments of political legitimacy and religious authority, while manuscripts contributed to the construction of cultural and scientific narratives. Official documents reveal the tension between political discourse and popular memory, whereas the novel reinterprets history through aesthetic and resistant language.