The course Written culture and materiality This activity proposes an introduction to the study of writing as a historical practice and as a material object. It invites the public to observe documents both for what they say and for the context in which they were produced, used, and preserved over time.
During the sessions, participants engage with concepts from the Social History of Written Culture and Material Culture. The aim is to show that texts, whether manuscripts or printed materials, are also objects, with form, support, and marks of use that help us understand the past. The course also discusses how the digitization of documents expands access but can obscure physical characteristics important for historical research.
The course presents practical approaches to analyzing historical documents by considering their materiality. This includes observing elements such as paper, ink, format, circulation, and social uses.
Among the topics covered are:
- Relationship between form and content of texts
- Writing and reading conditions in different periods
- Circulation of manuscripts and printed materials
- Limits and possibilities of digital files
- Analytical methods used in historical research
The classes combine theoretical explanation with practical examples, including the use of images and objects related to reading and writing practices.
This activity connects historical debates with current issues. By discussing the digitization of archives, the course shows how new technologies are transforming access to information, but also raise challenges for the preservation of the physical characteristics of documents.
This approach broadens the understanding of how historical knowledge is produced and reinforces the role of museums as spaces for research and reflection on written culture.
The course is aimed at teachers, undergraduate and graduate students, and professionals in the fields of humanities, communication, and information. No affiliation with USP is required to participate.
The activity will be led by Maria Aparecida de Menezes Borrego, professor and vice-director of the Museu Paulista at USP, and by researcher Jean Gomes de Souza. Both work in the areas of written culture and material culture, with research related to the study of historical documents and their forms of circulation.
In-person course
Dates: May 9 and 16, 2026
Time: from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 4pm
Workload: 8 hours
Location: Auditorium of the Ipiranga Museum
Job openings: 200
Free registration until May 6th at this [website/platform]. link
