A Guide to Western Historical Scripts from Antiquity to 1600 is a much-needed survey of the evolution of scripts and introduction to reading historical documents, extensively illustrated from a wide range of manuscripts.<BR>Fifty-five full-page plates give examples of the major western scripts in broadly chronological sequence, each accompanied by a commentary identifying the type of script, its historical and regional currency, distinctive features and style, and a transcription. With an introductory essay and select bibliography, fully revised and updated for this new paperback edition, this is an important and authoritative introduction to the subject.