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Difference between revisions of "Glyphs"

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{{culture
  
{{culture
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|image=Kholin Crest.svg
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|image=Glyph-Kholin.svg
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|image-artist=[[Isaac Stewart]]
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|image-artist= [[Isaac Stewart]]
 
|world=Roshar
  
|world=Roshar
 
|books=[[The Stormlight Archive]]
  
|books=[[The Stormlight Archive]]
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}}
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}}{{exemplary|date=2013-07-12}}{{update|book=sa2}}{{theory}}
  
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'''Glyphs''' are a writing system used on [[Roshar]] for basic communication, artistic expression, and religious practices. Individual glyphs represent specific ideas. They are typically symmetrical and can be rendered with varying degrees of stylization. Two glyphs may be combined into a '''glyphpair''', forming a word distinct from the constituent glyphs. Glyphs and glyphpairs are often designed as pictographs so that literacy is not required for comprehension. The writing system is not structured to facilitate the composition of sentences or more complex communication.
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'''Glyphs''' were a form of writing used on [[Roshar]] during the [[Era of Solitude]], that were said to have been given to the Rosharans by the [[Dawnsingers]].{{book ref|twok|33}}
  
   
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== Glyphs ==
 +
== History ==
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While the lines of the glyph itself have meaning, it is often drawn as a pictograph, in the shape of its meaning, so those who cannot read glyphs, such as illiterate servants,{{book ref|twok|8}} can still understand what they mean.{{book ref|twok|3}} There are both major and minor glyphs, as well as more topical glyphs.{{book ref|twok|5}} In keeping with [[Vorin]] belief, the glyphs have bilateral symmetry.{{book ref|twok|8}} The sounds they represent are also pronounced symmetrically. There are ten fundamental glyphs.{{book ref|twok|13}} Glyphs can easily be drawn in complicated ways that make it difficult to identify what they are, unless a person knows what they are looking for.{{book ref|twok|27}}
  
   
  +
[[File:Herald Glyph Jezrien.svg|thumb|Jezrien's Honorblade swordglyph|100px]]
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=== Known Glyphs ===
  
−
;idi: Meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|52}}
  
−
;khakh: Determination{{book ref|twok|47}}
  
−
;khokh: Meaning unknown, often drawn in the shape of a crown{{book ref|twok|28}}
  
−
;laial: Meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|40}}
  
−
;lerel: Meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|67}}
  
−
;linil: Meaning unknown, often drawn in the shape of a tower{{book ref|twok|28}} or a sword{{book ref|twok|4}}
  
−
;merem: Honor{{book ref|twok|47}}
  
−
;morom: Meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|2}}
  
−
;nahn: Meaning unknown, likely tied the caste [[nahn]]{{book ref|twok|51}}
  
−
;parap: Meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|52}}
  
−
;sas: Meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|51}}
  
−
;sebes: Meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|40}}
  
−
;shash: Dangerous{{book ref|twok|2}}
  
−
;shesh: Meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|67}}
  
−
;thath: Justice, had a very complex shape{{book ref|twok|69}}
  
   
  +
The usage of glyphs may predate even the [[Heraldic Epochs]], as they can be found inscribed, along with other patterns, on the [[Honorblade]]s themselves.{{book ref|twok|part=prelude}} They came into common usage among humans during the [[Era of Solitude]] and are said to have been given to the Rosharans by the [[Dawnsingers]].{{book ref|twok|33}} Glyphs seem to have a common origin with [[Thaylen script]], due to the presence of many similar graphemes. Though [[women's script]] became the primary writing system used in [[Vorin]] nations, glyphs are still used in many contexts.
−
<gallery widths=125px heights=125px caption=Glyphs>
  
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File:Khokh.svg|Khokh, stylized to look like a crown
  
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File:Linil.svg|Linil, stylized to look like a tower
  
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File:Nahn.svg|Nahn
  
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File:Sas.svg|Sas
  
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File:Shash.svg|Shash
  
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File:Freedom.svg|Freedom
  
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File:Kholin.svg|Kholin
  
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File:Tanat.svg|Tanat
  
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File:Bridge 4 Glyph.svg|Bridge Four
  
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File:Year 1173.svg|The Year 1173 (Stylized)
  
   
  +
[[File:TWoK Front Endsheet.jpg|thumb|The Ten Fundamental Glyphs|left|200px]]
−
</gallery>
  
   
  +
Glyphs are inexplicably tied to the Heralds and [[Knights Radiant]]. The "ten fundamental glyphs" are derived from or related to the "swordglyphs" of the honorblades and the the Knights Radiant orders.{{book ref|twok|8}}. These specific glyphs also appear on some [[Shardblade]]s, like [[Sunraiser]].{{book ref|twok|13}} Upon speaking new oaths or taking certain actions, similar glyphs may naturally appear around a Knight Radiant, formed out of frost or mist. When [[Shardplate]] was worn by Radiants before the [[Recreance]], it had glowing glyphs etched into the Plate that trailed vapor with color corresponding to the Radiant's order.{{book ref|twok|19}} These have since vanished for unknown reasons.{{book ref|twok|26}} Some of these glyphs were known in the Era of Solitude, and others were not.{{cite}}
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=== Uses ===
  
−
Despite the Vorin ban on men reading, it is permissible for them to read glyphs.{{book ref|twok|3}} However, mostly they look at the pictographs and could not actually identify what a glyph meant if it was not drawn in the form of its meaning.{{book ref|twok|59}} When a man is able to read glyphs not drawn in the shape of their meaning, it is still remarkable, especially if the man is a [[darkeyes]].{{book ref|twok|1}} [[Stormwarden]]s' books are written in glyphs.{{book ref|twok|60}}
  
   
  +
== Usage ==
−
Glyphs are inexplicably tied to the Heralds and [[Knights Radiant]]. They are inscribed upon all of the [[Honorblade]]s.{{book ref|sa|part=prelude}} In fact the hilts of the Honorblades are themselves the bases of the '''swordglyphs'''. The hilt of those glyphs are the symbols of the Knights Radiant. These are possibly the ten fundamental glyphs. They also appear on some [[Shardblade]]s.{{book ref|twok|13}} When [[Shardplate]] was worn by Radiants before the [[Recreance]], it had glowing glyphs etched into the plate that trailed vapor corresponding to the Radiant's order.{{book ref|twok|19}} These have since vanished for unknown reasons.{{book ref|twok|26}} Some of these glyphs were known in the Era of Solitude, and others were not.
  
   
  +
Glyphs are used for both basic communication and religious or artistic expression. Due to Vorin cultural prohibitions, men are not permitted to learn women's script and become fully literate. They are, however, permitted to use glyphs for the purpose of simple written communication.{{book ref|twok|3}} [[Lighteyed]] men, and some high [[nahn]] [[darkeyed]] men, may learn to read and write glyphs as part of their education, enabling them to identify glyphs that aren't portrayed pictographically and to interpret glyphpairs more readily. Despite this, men writing or drawing glyphs is still considered unmasculine or even blasphemous to some, especially among the lower classes. Educated women also learn to read and write glyphs, with greater emphasis than men on calligraphic ability.{{book ref|twok|3}} This is particularly important as women are traditionally responsible for religious activities which involve writing glyphs.{{book ref|wor|12}}
−
Glyphs are pervasive in decorations of all sorts. Glyphs are often put on clothing. They are often sewn into military uniforms, depending on the highprince the soldier serves.{{book ref|twok|18}} [[Alethi]] women sometimes wore dresses patterned with glyphs.{{book ref|twok|43}} The [[Parshendi]] have weapons, such as daggers, decorated with carved unfamiliar glyphs.{{book ref|twok|27}}{{book ref|twok|59}}
  
   
  +
===Practical and Economic Uses===
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Sometimes glyphs were believed to be able to be used to tell the future, by using extrapolations of the tenth glyphic paradigm. This was considered to be nothing but superstition.{{book ref|twok|33}}
  
   
  +
[[File:Kholin Crest.svg|thumb|150px|left|Dalinar's glyphpair]]
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== Glyphpairs ==
  
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Glyphpairs are used for a variety of things. Most commonly they serve as the crest for various families of [[lighteyes]].{{book ref|twok|4}} These glyphpairs were used on maps of the [[Shattered Plains]] to show which [[highprince]] owned what plateaus.{{book ref|twok|24}} Glyphpairs were also used to designate body parts in anatomical diagrams.{{book ref|twok|31}}
  
   
  +
Shops often use glyphs and glyphpairs to indicate which type of goods are available for sale. For example, bookstores may display the glyphpair for "book", stylized into the shape of a book so that even illiterate servants will recognize it as a bookstore.{{book ref|twok|8}} Signs may also be used to indicate specific items for sale as well as associated prices.{{book ref|wor|43}} Books, folios, and scrolls intended for men may use glyphs and glyphpairs, along with images. Textbooks use glyphpairs to designate body parts in anatomical diagrams{{book ref|twok|31}} while a guide on [[Shardblade]] stances may use glyphs to indicate specific movements.{{cite}} These will often be accompanied with women's script for further clarification. While official documents may make use of glyphs, they are typically written with women's script.{{book ref|twok|25}}
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Glyphpairs are also used to mark slaves.{{book ref|twok|2}} The glyphpair of the district they were enslaved in is branded onto their forehead to signify their new caste. The addition of a shash glyph, marking a dangerous slave, can make it difficult to get a good price for the slave.{{book ref|twok|4}}
  
   
  +
Highborn lighteyed families often have a distinct glyph and glyphpair. For example, the Kholin family uses the "khokh linil" glyphpair; stylized as a sword and crown, this crest appears on the armor, clothing, and banners of Dalinar's army and servants.{{book ref|twok|18}} Maps of the [[Shattered Plains]] use these glyphs and glyphpairs to indicate ownership of camps and plateaus.{{book ref|twok|24}} Slaves are branded on the forehead with a glyphpair of the district in which they were enslaved, to signify their new caste. The addition of a "shash" glyph brand, marking a dangerous slave, can make it difficult to get a good price for the slave.{{book ref|twok|4}} Upon earning their freedom, slaves may opt to cover these brands with a tattoo, including glyphs that reference the record of their release.{{book ref|wor|2}}
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=== Known Glyphpairs ===
  
−
*khokh linil - [[House Kholin]]'s glyphpair, in the shape of a tower and crown for most of House Kholin,{{book ref|twok|28}} but in the shape of a sword and crown for King [[Elhokar]].{{book ref|twok|28}}{{book ref|twok|4}}
  
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*merem khakh - [[Amaram]]'s glyphpair drawn in the shape of a [[whitespine]]{{book ref|twok|47}}
  
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*sas morom - Slave brand, glyphpair of a highlord's district{{book ref|twok|2}}
  
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*sas nahn - Slave brand, possible glyphpair for Amaram's district{{book ref|twok|51}}
  
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*sebes laial - Highprince [[Sebarial]]'s glyphpair, in the shape of a deep gold [[skyeel]] on a black field.{{book ref|sa2|40}}
  
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*shesh lerel - [[Sheler]]'s glyphpair{{book ref|twok|77}}
  
   
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=== Other Glyphpairs ===
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===Art and Religion===
  +
−
In addition to the named glyphpairs, one other is known:
  
  +
[[File:Glyphward1.jpg|thumb|200px|A glyphward]]
  +
  +
Glyphs are also pervasive in decorations and religious practices, where they tend to be portrayed in a very stylized manner. Greater value is placed on beauty and aesthetics than on making the symbol easily recognizable. Glyphs are occasionally used on clothing for decorative purposes. For example, [[Alethi]] women sometimes wear dresses patterned with glyphs.{{book ref|twok|43}} The doors into the [[Palanaeum]] are adorned with a beautiful carving of intricate glyphs.{{book ref|twok|7}} When the freed members of [[Bridge Four]] chose tattoos to cover their slave brands, they opted for a purely decorative "bridge four" glyphpair to be added.{{book ref|wor|2}} Even the [[Parshendi]] have been known to occasionally carve strange, unfamiliar glyphs into their daggers.{{book ref|twok|27}}{{book ref|twok|59}}
  +
  +
Sometimes these decorative glyphs my also take on a religious nature. In Vorinism, glyphs are often sewn into fabric or painted with a flammable ink. These "[[glyphward]]s" are then burned as a prayer. Young women may wear a "bride's prayer" on their sleeves prior to engagement, and soldiers may wear glyphwards into battle for luck and safety.{{book ref|twok|44}}{{book ref|twok|62}} Some even tattoo themselves with glyphs intended as a prayer.{{book ref|twok|55}} Women are typically responsible for drawing glyphwards for their families, though they may also be purchased at [[luckmerch]]es and apothecaries.{{book ref|twok|17}}{{book ref|twok|25}} While the practice of glyphwards is common in Vorin nations, many consider the practice to be superstitious. More pagan beliefs also surround the use of glyphs. For example, some believe that extrapolations of the "tenth glyphic paradigm" can be used to determine one's personality.{{book ref|twok|33}}
  +
  +
===Stormwarden Script===
  +
  +
[[Stormwarden]]'s must perform calculations and a great deal of research to determine the coming of future [[highstorm]]s. As men are permitted to become Stormwardens, their books and notes are written with glyphs.{{book ref|twok|60}} While this extensive writing is generally considered taboo in Vorin nations, the skill is too valuable for the practice to be forbidden. Few are aware of how this system of writing works because of the secretive nature of the Stormwardens and the surrounding controversy. When no suitable glyphs exist to convey a certain word, Stormwarden script combines the pronunciation of multiple glyphs to phonetically reproduce the desired word. This phonetic usage is indicated by underlining the component glyphs.{{book ref|wor|52}}
  +
  +
== Appearance and Design ==
  +
{{theory}}
  +
  +
[[File:Harakeke's Glyph Key.jpg|thumb|150px|Theorized glyph graphemes, by Harakeke]]
  +
  +
Glyphs can be seen written in three different ways: a standard, block form that highly resembles Thaylen script; a calligraphic form, in which the glyph may be altered significantly for heightened aesthetics; or a radial form, where the glyph is drawn repeatedly with radial symmetry about some point.{{17s|post|105525|Stormlight Archive Translation Guide|date=2014-3-6}} They typically have bilateral symmetry{{book ref|twok|8}}, matching the symmetrical pronunciation of the sounds they represent. In some cases, glyphs appear to be composed of distinct graphemes representing consonants.{{17s|post|105525|Stormlight Archive Translation Guide|date=2014-3-6}} Vowels are generally not indicated. These graphemes often bear resemblance to the characters of Thaylen Script. When graphemes are apparent, they appear to be pronounced outward and down from the center and top of the glyph. For example, the "sas" glyph is comprised of two "s" graphemes.
  +
  +
The component graphemes are not always readily discernible. Glyphs are often drawn in complicated ways that make it difficult to identify what they are unless a person knows what they are looking for.{{book ref|twok|27}} Lines are often added, removed, or contorted. In order to draw glyphs, one must have a deep understanding of how the glyph may be expressed without overly obscuring the meaning.{{qa ref|1112|25|Isaac on the design of glyphs|date=2014-4-16}} Additionally, glyphs are often drawn as pictographs--visually depicting the word it represents. This is done so those who cannot read glyphs may still understand what they mean.{{book ref|twok|3}}
  +
  +
=== Known Glyphs ===
  +
  +
{| class=infobox width=100%
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|-
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Gesheh.png|80px]]
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| ''gesheh''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''idi''
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''khakh''
  +
|-
  +
| Bridge{{qa ref|1112|9|How to say Bridge 4|date=2014-04-16}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|52}}
  +
| Determination{{book ref|twok|47}}
  +
|-
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Khokh.svg|80px]]
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| ''khokh''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
  +
| ''laial''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
  +
| ''lerel''
  +
|-
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|28}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|40}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|67}}
  +
|-
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Linil.svg|80px]]
  +
| ''linl''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''merem''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''morom''
  +
|-
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|4}}{{book ref|twok|28}}
  +
| Honor{{book ref|twok|47}}
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| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|2}}
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|-
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Nahn.svg|80px]]
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| ''nahn''
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''parap''
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Sas.svg|80px]]
  +
| ''sas''
  +
|-
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|51}}, not related to the caste [[nahn]]{{17s ref|post|577569|Slave Brands|date=2017-07-02}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|52}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|51}}
  +
|-
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
  +
| ''sebes''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Shash.svg|80px]]
  +
| ''shash''
  +
! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
  +
| ''shesh''
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|-
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|wor|40}}
  +
| Dangerous{{book ref|twok|2}}
  +
| meaning unknown{{book ref|twok|67}}
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|-
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| ''unknown''
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| ''thath''
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! rowspan=2 width=15%| [[File:Freedom.svg|80px]]
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| ''unknown''
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! rowspan=2 width=15%|
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|
  +
|-
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| Justice{{book ref|twok|69}}, has a very complex shape
  +
| Freedom{{book ref|wor|2}}
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|
  +
|}
  +
  +
=== Known Glyphpairs ===
  +
*''khokh linil'' - [[House Kholin]]'s glyphpair, in the shape of a tower and crown for most of House Kholin,{{book ref|twok|28}} but in the shape of a sword and crown for King [[Elhokar]].{{book ref|twok|28}}{{book ref|twok|4}}
  +
*''merem khakh'' - [[Amaram]]'s glyphpair, drawn in the shape of a [[whitespine]]{{book ref|twok|47}}
  +
*''sas morom'' - Slave brand, glyphpair of a highlord's district{{book ref|twok|2}}
  +
*''sas nahn'' - Slave brand, possible glyphpair for Amaram's district{{book ref|twok|51}}
  +
*''sebes laial'' - Highprince [[Sebarial]]'s glyphpair, in the shape of a deep gold [[skyeel]] on a black field.{{book ref|sa2|40}}
  +
*''shesh lerel'' - [[Sheler]]'s glyphpair{{book ref|twok|77}}
 
*Tower & Hammer - Highprince [[Torol Sadeas]]'s glyphpair{{book ref|twok|6}}
  
*Tower & Hammer - Highprince [[Torol Sadeas]]'s glyphpair{{book ref|twok|6}}
   
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</gallery>
  
</gallery>
   
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== Glyphwards ==
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==Trivia==
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{{culture
  
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|image=Glyphward1.jpg
  
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|image-artist=[[User: Sheep]]
  
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|name=Glyphwards
  
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|related=Vorinism
  
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|world=Roshar
  
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|books=[[The Stormlight Archive]]
  
−
}}
  
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'''Glyphwards''' are prayers, written in the form of glyphs, that are used in Vorinism. Glyphwards can be a short in length as a single glyph,{{book ref|twok|69}} or as long as several glyphs strung together.{{book ref|twok|62}} They do take some skill to draw well and neatly, so a person who can draw glyphwards calligraphically well is considered to have an impressive ability.{{book ref|twok|5}} After a glyphward is created, whether through drawing or sewing it into cloth,{{book ref|twok|62}} it is burned to send the soul of the prayer to the [[Almighty]]. If the prayer fails to be answered, it is simply treated as his will. In addition to sending prayers to the Almighty, glyphwards often appeal to one of the [[Herald]]s, such as [[Jezrien|Jezerezeh]]'Elin, the Stormfather.{{book ref|twok|62}} Glyphs were also drawn on surfaces with [[burn ink]], and then set on fire to burn a glyph onto something.{{book ref|twok|69}}
  
   
  +
Glyphs were inspired by Arabic word art.{{qa ref|1088|1|date=2014-3-22|Technical details of the glyph writing system}}
−
The prayers sent by glyphwards vary quite a bit. Some are burned before a an action, for a blessing such as luck or success.{{book ref|twok|49}} Others are burned in a prayer of thanksgiving for some perceived blessing.{{book ref|twok|8}} Some glyphwards are commissioned to absolve sins, such as visiting the [[Nightwatcher]].{{book ref|twok|61}} When a person dies or is in danger, his or her wife or daughters will create glyphwards to pray for that person.{{book ref|twok|69}} Glyphwards are also believed to be able to turn away evil.{{book ref|twok|25}}
  
   
  +
==Need to include!==
−
On some occasions, glyphwards are not burned right away, or at all. A '''bride's prayer''' is a glyphward made up of a glyphpair.{{book ref|twok|44}} A woman who is to be married has it sewn onto her sleeve. After the engagement is formally announced, the prayer is removed and burned. Other times, a glyphward is simply sewn onto a person's sleeve in the event that they ever need it, in which case it would be burned.{{book ref|twok|44}} Some are simply worn for protection or good fortune, without ever needing to be burned.{{book ref|twok|62}} On occasion, Rosharans will even get tattoos of glyphwards.{{book ref|twok|55}}
  
  +
* comment about major, minor, and topical glyphs
−  
−
Women are the only ones to typically make glyphwards,{{book ref|twok|28}} although both men and women make use of them. In addition to being homemade, glyphwards are often purchased from [[luckmerch|luckmerches]] or apothecaries,{{book ref|twok|25}} the latter of which will often decorate their shops will glyphwards.{{book ref|twok|17}} [[Ardent]]s will also burn prayers to the Almighty, to help the people they serve.{{book ref|twok|37}}
  
−  
−
More scientifically minded or more logical Rosharans deplore glyphwards as mere nonsense and superstition.{{book ref|twok|5}}{{book ref|twok|17}} Some wonder why, if the Almighty is omniscient, he needs to have a prayer burned to him before he can aid someone.{{book ref|twok|43}}
  
−  
−  
−
<gallery caption="Images of Glyphwards">
  
−
Glyphward.jpg | Burning glyphward by [[User: Sheep]]
  
−
</gallery>
  
   
 
== Notes ==
  
== Notes ==
 
<references />
  
<references />
−
{{partial}}
 +
{{complete}}
 
{{Stormlight}}
  
{{Stormlight}}
 
[[Category: Language]]
  
[[Category: Language]]
−
[[Category: Vorinism]]
  

Revision as of 01:13, 28 August 2017

Glyphs
Glyph-Kholin.svg
by Isaac Stewart
World of Origin Roshar

Glyphs are a writing system used on Roshar for basic communication, artistic expression, and religious practices. Individual glyphs represent specific ideas. They are typically symmetrical and can be rendered with varying degrees of stylization. Two glyphs may be combined into a glyphpair, forming a word distinct from the constituent glyphs. Glyphs and glyphpairs are often designed as pictographs so that literacy is not required for comprehension. The writing system is not structured to facilitate the composition of sentences or more complex communication.

History

Jezrien's Honorblade swordglyph

The usage of glyphs may predate even the Heraldic Epochs, as they can be found inscribed, along with other patterns, on the Honorblades themselves.[1] They came into common usage among humans during the Era of Solitude and are said to have been given to the Rosharans by the Dawnsingers.[2] Glyphs seem to have a common origin with Thaylen script, due to the presence of many similar graphemes. Though women's script became the primary writing system used in Vorin nations, glyphs are still used in many contexts.

The Ten Fundamental Glyphs

Glyphs are inexplicably tied to the Heralds and Knights Radiant. The "ten fundamental glyphs" are derived from or related to the "swordglyphs" of the honorblades and the the Knights Radiant orders.[3]. These specific glyphs also appear on some Shardblades, like Sunraiser.[4] Upon speaking new oaths or taking certain actions, similar glyphs may naturally appear around a Knight Radiant, formed out of frost or mist. When Shardplate was worn by Radiants before the Recreance, it had glowing glyphs etched into the Plate that trailed vapor with color corresponding to the Radiant's order.[5] These have since vanished for unknown reasons.[6] Some of these glyphs were known in the Era of Solitude, and others were not.[citation needed]

Usage

Glyphs are used for both basic communication and religious or artistic expression. Due to Vorin cultural prohibitions, men are not permitted to learn women's script and become fully literate. They are, however, permitted to use glyphs for the purpose of simple written communication.[7] Lighteyed men, and some high nahn darkeyed men, may learn to read and write glyphs as part of their education, enabling them to identify glyphs that aren't portrayed pictographically and to interpret glyphpairs more readily. Despite this, men writing or drawing glyphs is still considered unmasculine or even blasphemous to some, especially among the lower classes. Educated women also learn to read and write glyphs, with greater emphasis than men on calligraphic ability.[7] This is particularly important as women are traditionally responsible for religious activities which involve writing glyphs.[8]

Practical and Economic Uses

Dalinar's glyphpair

Shops often use glyphs and glyphpairs to indicate which type of goods are available for sale. For example, bookstores may display the glyphpair for "book", stylized into the shape of a book so that even illiterate servants will recognize it as a bookstore.[3] Signs may also be used to indicate specific items for sale as well as associated prices.[9] Books, folios, and scrolls intended for men may use glyphs and glyphpairs, along with images. Textbooks use glyphpairs to designate body parts in anatomical diagrams[10] while a guide on Shardblade stances may use glyphs to indicate specific movements.[citation needed] These will often be accompanied with women's script for further clarification. While official documents may make use of glyphs, they are typically written with women's script.[11]

Highborn lighteyed families often have a distinct glyph and glyphpair. For example, the Kholin family uses the "khokh linil" glyphpair; stylized as a sword and crown, this crest appears on the armor, clothing, and banners of Dalinar's army and servants.[12] Maps of the Shattered Plains use these glyphs and glyphpairs to indicate ownership of camps and plateaus.[13] Slaves are branded on the forehead with a glyphpair of the district in which they were enslaved, to signify their new caste. The addition of a "shash" glyph brand, marking a dangerous slave, can make it difficult to get a good price for the slave.[14] Upon earning their freedom, slaves may opt to cover these brands with a tattoo, including glyphs that reference the record of their release.[15]

Art and Religion

A glyphward

Glyphs are also pervasive in decorations and religious practices, where they tend to be portrayed in a very stylized manner. Greater value is placed on beauty and aesthetics than on making the symbol easily recognizable. Glyphs are occasionally used on clothing for decorative purposes. For example, Alethi women sometimes wear dresses patterned with glyphs.[16] The doors into the Palanaeum are adorned with a beautiful carving of intricate glyphs.[17] When the freed members of Bridge Four chose tattoos to cover their slave brands, they opted for a purely decorative "bridge four" glyphpair to be added.[15] Even the Parshendi have been known to occasionally carve strange, unfamiliar glyphs into their daggers.[18][19]

Sometimes these decorative glyphs my also take on a religious nature. In Vorinism, glyphs are often sewn into fabric or painted with a flammable ink. These "glyphwards" are then burned as a prayer. Young women may wear a "bride's prayer" on their sleeves prior to engagement, and soldiers may wear glyphwards into battle for luck and safety.[20][21] Some even tattoo themselves with glyphs intended as a prayer.[22] Women are typically responsible for drawing glyphwards for their families, though they may also be purchased at luckmerches and apothecaries.[23][11] While the practice of glyphwards is common in Vorin nations, many consider the practice to be superstitious. More pagan beliefs also surround the use of glyphs. For example, some believe that extrapolations of the "tenth glyphic paradigm" can be used to determine one's personality.[2]

Stormwarden Script

Stormwarden's must perform calculations and a great deal of research to determine the coming of future highstorms. As men are permitted to become Stormwardens, their books and notes are written with glyphs.[24] While this extensive writing is generally considered taboo in Vorin nations, the skill is too valuable for the practice to be forbidden. Few are aware of how this system of writing works because of the secretive nature of the Stormwardens and the surrounding controversy. When no suitable glyphs exist to convey a certain word, Stormwarden script combines the pronunciation of multiple glyphs to phonetically reproduce the desired word. This phonetic usage is indicated by underlining the component glyphs.[25]

Appearance and Design

This page or section deals with theories or speculation.
Please read carefully and note that this is not necessarily canonical.
Theorized glyph graphemes, by Harakeke

Glyphs can be seen written in three different ways: a standard, block form that highly resembles Thaylen script; a calligraphic form, in which the glyph may be altered significantly for heightened aesthetics; or a radial form, where the glyph is drawn repeatedly with radial symmetry about some point.Template:17s They typically have bilateral symmetry[3], matching the symmetrical pronunciation of the sounds they represent. In some cases, glyphs appear to be composed of distinct graphemes representing consonants.Template:17s Vowels are generally not indicated. These graphemes often bear resemblance to the characters of Thaylen Script. When graphemes are apparent, they appear to be pronounced outward and down from the center and top of the glyph. For example, the "sas" glyph is comprised of two "s" graphemes.

The component graphemes are not always readily discernible. Glyphs are often drawn in complicated ways that make it difficult to identify what they are unless a person knows what they are looking for.[18] Lines are often added, removed, or contorted. In order to draw glyphs, one must have a deep understanding of how the glyph may be expressed without overly obscuring the meaning.[26] Additionally, glyphs are often drawn as pictographs--visually depicting the word it represents. This is done so those who cannot read glyphs may still understand what they mean.[7]

Known Glyphs

Gesheh.png gesheh unknown idi unknown khakh
Bridge[27] meaning unknown[25] Determination[28]
Khokh.svg khokh unknown laial unknown lerel
meaning unknown[29] meaning unknown[30] meaning unknown[31]
Linil.svg linl unknown merem unknown morom
meaning unknown[14][29] Honor[28] meaning unknown[32]
Nahn.svg nahn unknown parap Sas.svg sas
meaning unknown[33], not related to the caste nahn[34] meaning unknown[25] meaning unknown[33]
unknown sebes Shash.svg shash unknown shesh
meaning unknown[30] Dangerous[32] meaning unknown[31]
unknown thath Freedom.svg unknown
Justice[35], has a very complex shape Freedom[15]

Known Glyphpairs

  • khokh linil - House Kholin's glyphpair, in the shape of a tower and crown for most of House Kholin,[29] but in the shape of a sword and crown for King Elhokar.[29][14]
  • merem khakh - Amaram's glyphpair, drawn in the shape of a whitespine[28]
  • sas morom - Slave brand, glyphpair of a highlord's district[32]
  • sas nahn - Slave brand, possible glyphpair for Amaram's district[33]
  • sebes laial - Highprince Sebarial's glyphpair, in the shape of a deep gold skyeel on a black field.[30]
  • shesh lerel - Sheler's glyphpair[36]
  • Tower & Hammer - Highprince Torol Sadeas's glyphpair[37]

Numbers

Traditional 1173 vs. Stylized '73

Glyphs may also be used to represent numbers. A base ten number system with a semblance of positional notation is used.[38] Numerals are written with bilateral symmetry and may be stylized for artistic or aesthetic purposes. It is unclear whether these glyphs are used only in Vorin nations or throughout Roshar.

The names used for the numbers does vary, even among the Vorin nations. In Vorin usage, the words for numbers one through ten are derived from the names of the ten Heralds. Each is also assigned a suffix, and the names of larger numbers are created by combining these suffixes. Thus the number "1173" is "Jesesabach", using Jes (1), -es (1), -ab (7), -ach (3).

Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Vorin Name Jes Nan Chach Vev Palah Shash Betab Kak Tanat Ishi
Suffix -es -an -ach -ev -ah -ash -ab -ak -at -ish
1173

Place value is read from top to bottom. Different glyphs are sometimes used to represent numbers depending on place value. For example, the symbol "2" in the number "20" is not the same symbol used in the number "2". In the example to the right using "1173", the light blue represents "3", the green represents "70", the red represents "100", and the dark blue represents "1000". Note that the blue "3" and red "1" differ from their basic configuration.

Numerals

  • 0

  • 1

  • 2

  • 3

  • 4

  • 5

  • 6

  • 7

  • 8

  • 9

  • 10

  • 20

  • 1173

Trivia

Glyphs were inspired by Arabic word art.[39]

Need to include!

  • comment about major, minor, and topical glyphs

Notes

  1. ↑ Prelude to the Stormlight Archive#
  2. ↑ a b The Way of Kings chapter 33#
  3. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 8#
  4. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 13#
  5. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 19#
  6. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 26#
  7. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 3#
  8. ↑ Words of Radiance chapter 12#
  9. ↑ Words of Radiance chapter 43#
  10. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 31#
  11. ↑ a b The Way of Kings chapter 25#
  12. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 18#
  13. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 24#
  14. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 4#
  15. ↑ a b c Words of Radiance chapter 2#
  16. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 43#
  17. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 7#
  18. ↑ a b The Way of Kings chapter 27#
  19. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 59#
  20. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 44#
  21. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 62#
  22. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 55#
  23. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 17#
  24. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 60#
  25. ↑ a b c Words of Radiance chapter 52#
  26. ↑ Isaac on the design of glyphs
    — Theoryland - 2014-4-16#
  27. ↑ How to say Bridge 4
    — Theoryland - 2014-04-16#
  28. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 47#
  29. ↑ a b c d The Way of Kings chapter 28#
  30. ↑ a b c Words of Radiance chapter 40#
  31. ↑ a b The Way of Kings chapter 67#
  32. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 2#
  33. ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 51#
  34. ↑ Slave Brands
    — 17th Shard forums - 2017-07-02#
  35. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 69#
  36. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 77#
  37. ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 6#
  38. ↑ Thaylen and Alethi Glyph Translation
    — 17th Shard forums - 2014-3-6#
  39. ↑ Technical details of the glyph writing system
    — Theoryland - 2014-3-22#
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