Comparing language, style, and formulary in notarial documents in early medieval Italy

This paper investigates the comparability of medieval notarial documents produced in different regions of Italy. This documentation is represented by original texts drawn up in Latin in writing centers of Langobardia Maior and Langobardia Minor between the 8th and 9th centuries. Despite belonging to the same textual type, these documents exhibit variations on multiple levels of analysis, including socio-historical context, formulaic traditions, and notarial expertise. The research identifies three key areas of comparison: i) differences related to the formulary or to the writing tradition; ii) differences due to the historical, social, and cultural contexts in the Northern and Southern areas of the Italian peninsula; iii) linguistic specificities developed within certain notarial groups. By examining variations in formulas, writing styles, and linguistic features, this study aims to identify the factors shaping notarial practices in Langobardia Maior and Langobardia Minor. The analysis will draw on historical and diplomatic studies to contextualize the linguistic findings.