Abstract
In recent years, multiple-text manuscripts (MTMs) have attracted growing academic interest. MTMs deserve ample attention, since they constitute the majority of manuscripts in many cultures. The aim of this article is to categorize MTMs in a way that goes beyond textual content or mere codicological features. Focusing on and combining three aspects (content, use, and production), we propose the following categories: Petrified MTMs, Intertwined MTMs, Open MTMs, Repurposed MTMs, and Recycled MTMs. These MTM categories reflect commonly shared phenomena and can be applied to MTMs from various manuscript cultures. At the centre of our approach is an attempt to better understand the projects behind MTMs. In this way, we seek to analyse and categorize MTMs with regard to their emergence, transmission, use, reception, and perception.
