Was ist ein Brief?

En savoir plus sur le livre

This collection explores the multifaceted nature of letters, beginning with conceptual frameworks for understanding correspondence. It delves into categories and genres, addressing the question of what defines a letter, and examines the poetic aspects of epistolary forms. The discourse highlights the relational dynamics inherent in letter writing and considers the insights gained from digital letter editions. The evolution of letters as a medium is also a focal point, with analyses of valediction in historical correspondence and the cultural practices surrounding letter writing. Perspectives from Literacy Studies shed light on the role of postcards in Edwardian society, while discussions on the impact of social media suggest a new form of epistolarity. The transition of letters in the context of nostalgia and new media is also examined. Additionally, the book addresses diverse writing cultures, from ancient papyrus and ostraka to the significance of calligraphic letters in Chinese history. It highlights the materiality of letters as expressions of spiritual care, particularly through the correspondence of Benedictine nuns. Finally, it reflects on the collaborative and imaginative aspects of familial letters, exemplified by the Herder family correspondence from 1788 to 1789.