Käsikirjaiset

Käsikirjaiset is a Finnish term that translates to "manuscripts" in English. It generally refers to handwritten documents, particularly those created before the widespread adoption of printing technology. This can encompass a wide range of materials, including personal letters, diaries, official records, literary works, and religious texts. In historical and archival contexts, käsikirjaiset are crucial primary sources that offer direct insight into the past.

The study and preservation of käsikirjaiset are important for understanding historical periods, cultural practices, and the evolution of language and thought. Libraries, archives, and museums often house significant collections of these materials. The physical condition of käsikirjaiset can vary greatly, with factors such as the quality of parchment or paper, ink, and storage conditions influencing their longevity. Conservation efforts are often necessary to ensure these valuable documents can be studied by future generations.

In contemporary usage, the term might also be used more broadly to refer to any original handwritten document, even if it is not historically ancient, such as an author's original manuscript before it is typeset for publication. The term emphasizes the handwritten nature of the document as opposed to a printed or digitally produced version.