Culture and Communication of epigraphical inscriptions: based on Nineteenth century memorial scripts from Vilnius

The thesis explores theoretical and methodological approach to epigraphy, as well as the culture and communication of epigraphical memorial script. The object of research is communication of Nineteenth centuries epigraphical memorial inscriptions in the context of epigraphical culture. The aim is to conceptualize and synthesize methodological approach to the epigraphical inscriptions, based on scientific methods of Communication and Information sciences; and by using that approach, to investigate epigraphical memorial inscriptions in cultural context of Nineteenth century Vilnius. Methods of Humanitarian and Social sciences are used in the doctoral dissertation and three research levels are applied: 1) due to the experience of Humanities and Social sciences, the scientific concept of epigraphy is discussed as well as historiographical tradition of epigraphy; 2) Testing of the adapted model through empirical research, based on collected database of inscriptions and written historical sources; 3) conducted semiotic analysis of epigraphical inscriptions in context of memory studies and in context of script’s layout in area. After the implementation of all stages, Nineteenth centuries epigraphical culture was revealed. Furthermore, functionality of epigraphical script as a mean of communication in Vilnius society of the Nineteenth century was revealed