1. How are punctuation changes handled in the manuscript?
In the manuscript, punctuation changes are handled by retaining Boswell's original spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. Missing punctuation is shown in square brackets when necessary for clarity. Periods, colons, and dashes are treated according to specific rules, ensuring the manuscript remains true to the original text. French accents are also retained as written by Boswell.
read more
2. How are missing words and letters in manuscripts represented?
Missing words and letters in manuscripts are represented using angular brackets for words or passages that are uncertain but speculated, italics for indecipherable words or passages, and square brackets for inadvertent omissions. Boswell's deletions are also noted, with some due to censorship by Lady Talbot of Malahide. Most deletions have been reconstructed by later Yale editors, and difficult reconstructions are mentioned in the notes.
read more
3. Where are quotations from Boswell's journals sourced from?
Quotations from Boswell's journals are sourced from published sources, with full citations provided. In some cases, they are taken from material transcribed conservatively from original manuscripts. Other quotations are taken from volumes in the Trade Edition series of the Yale Boswell Editions, where the text was 'normalized'. This ensures accurate representation and reproduction of Boswell's work in the research section. The editorial notes and footnotes provide additional context and references for these quotations, enhancing the credibility and depth of the research.
read more