The meaning of many letters escapes us, when the context is lacking, as is the case in these two private letters on papyrus, from the third and sixth centuries AD.

Letter. C. 300 AD

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Second column of a private letter. Due to the lack of context its purpose is unclear. The handwriting is very meticulous.

Click here for Greek text and translation in DDbDP.

 

 

Letter. 6th cent. AD

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Notice the exuberant Byzantine handwriting. This letter consists only of greetings to a number of people. Egypt had no postal service. People would generally give them to people travelling to the destination of the letter. Many letters from antiquity had the sole purpose of informing relatives and friends that all was well.

Click here for Greek text and translation in DDbDP.

 

 

 

 

 

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On the back of the papyrus was written, transversely, the lady's address.