“R.E.A.D.I.N.G Cretan Hieroglyphic Inscriptions on Seals”

The aim of this paper is to propose a multidimensional approach on the different factors involved in the process of reading and understanding Cretan Hieroglyphic inscriptions on seals. Starting from a theoretical framework influenced by integrational semiotics, it will be suggested that the act of reading, besides the knowledge of the meanings and uses of different signs (with or without any phonetic realization intended), implies the possession, by the readers, of numerous multifaceted abilities, attitudes and expectations, aside the awareness of the codes and rules established by the cultural context that has produced the texts. Inspired by the “WRITING” model proposed by Antonio Perri, it will be suggested here an ideal paradigm for the description of the principal factors involved in the process of reading and understanding Cretan Hieroglyphic texts on seals, using as an acronym the word READING. These factors are: R = readers; E = external stimuli; A = abilities; D = decoding; I = interpretation; N = network; G = graphic norms