Highland cows

What is biocodicology/biodiplomatics?

Biocodicology is a field of research where biomolecular data is analyzed from parchment. Through this data we can learn a lot of information about the past that otherwise would not be recorded. In the case of this exhibit, we use the term "biodiplomatics" rather than biocodicology. These terms are very similar, but codicology is a term that is associated with the study of books, whereas diplomatics is the term used for the study of charters. 

Biocodicology contributes to our knowledge of the past by resolving debates around individual manuscripts, analyzing the construction of medieval codices, increasing knowledge of the medieval parchment trade, and reconstructing medieval herds.

The use of the Scottish charters is important for this field of research. Opportunities for the import of parchment to Scotland were limited, and sheep and cattle were abundant, which suggests that most parchment was produced locally. Looking at biodiplomatics in Scotland can thus tell us more information about animal husbandry and genetic make-up of Scottish livestock in particular.