The correct spelling of the term "English serpentary" is /ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ ˈsɜːrpəntri/. It refers to a place where snakes are kept or bred, also known as a serpentarium. The word "English" is pronounced with the initial sound /ɪŋ/ and the stress on the first syllable, while "serpentary" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable and the final sound /tri/. It is important to spell words correctly in order to communicate effectively and avoid confusion in written communication.
English serpentary refers to a particular variety of cursive handwriting that was popularly used in England during the medieval period, particularly between the 12th and 15th centuries. This script was predominantly employed for official documents, legal records, and other written materials of utmost importance. The term "serpentary" derived from its distinctive and unique stylized letterforms resembling the curvilinear shape of serpents.
The defining characteristic of English serpentary is its flowing and interconnected nature, where each letter within a word is connected to the next without lifting the writing implement from the surface. This continuous flow gives the script an elegant and graceful appearance. Additionally, English serpentary exhibits several specific letterforms, such as the "long s," which resembles the letter "f," and the "r" with a distinctive long, curved tail.
The use of English serpentary was not limited to England; it also influenced other European countries. However, the script gradually fell out of favor with the advent of the printing press, making it less practical for mass production. Nevertheless, English serpentary continues to be appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and historical significance.
In contemporary times, studying and reproducing the English serpentary script serves as a useful tool for calligraphers, historians, and enthusiasts interested in reviving the art of medieval handwriting.
Bistorta.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.