parateksti

Parateksti refers to all the elements surrounding a main text that help to interpret it. These elements are not part of the core message of the text itself but provide context, framing, or supplementary information. Examples of paratext include titles, subtitles, author names, prefaces, introductions, footnotes, endnotes, glossaries, indexes, and even the font choice and layout of a printed work. In digital contexts, paratextual elements can also encompass hyperlinks, metadata, and user comments.

The concept of paratext was introduced by Gérard Genette in his work "Paratexts: Thresholds of Interpretation." Genette argued that these peripheral texts, which he termed "peritext" (elements within the main text, like titles) and "epitext" (elements outside the main text, like reviews), are crucial for how readers engage with and understand a given work. They guide the reader's expectations, shape their perception, and can influence their interpretation of the main text.

The function of paratext is multifaceted. It can provide authorial intent, historical context, or critical commentary. For instance, a preface might explain the author's motivation for writing the book, while footnotes can offer explanations of specialized terms or cite sources. The title itself is a primary paratextual element that often gives the first clue about the text's subject matter. Without paratext, a text might be ambiguous or inaccessible, making these surrounding elements essential components of the overall communication.