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<salutation>
Jim,
</salutation>
<reply>
EAD in XML is essentially like EAD in SGML: the tags are the same, the
data content within tags is the same, and, since it is the granularity and type
of tagging that gives intelligence to the data content, subsequent processing
is the same. In principle, that is; in practice XML might just be easier to
deal with.
If I understand your question, you are looking for a markup construct that will
describe (and allow processing-- searching, re-ordering etc-- of) the contents
of the original document represented as an image.
Certain EAD tags will provide you with 'fields' that you might need to
reference the image, but the vast majoity of EAD tags will be left untouched.
Why, then, implement a largely empty tag set? If it is the _content_ of the original
that you wish to describe and access, theTEI (Text Encoding Iniative) DTD may
be your best bet.
If you wish to create something like a record to summarise the essential details
of the original that the image represents, EAD may well do the job, but this
depends on the depth of your item analysis. I presume that, as you are working
at the item level, you will be looking at some detailed diplomatic
characteristics (protocol, preamble, annotations, exposition... the list goes
on, and on). In this case EAD probably can not be forced to fit. Others more
versed in diplomatic may be better advised on how to adapt EAD tags to fit such
in-depth item analysis.
Personally I think that there is scope in the profession for a tag set (DTD) to
cover diplomatic analysis. Whilst the medievalists may benefit most
apparently from such a DTD, thinking in terms of actions, functions and the form
of transmission of all documents can only benefit us all.
Opinions from diplomatists? Can EAD do the job, or is something more required?
</reply>
Stephen Yearl,
Project Archivist
Connecticut Historical Society
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