SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The field of study covered by this thesis is the Epigraphy and Palaeography of Ceylon. The following point are discussed: I. The development of the Brahmi Lipi in India and in final disappearance II. The distribution of the lithic records in Ceylon at different periods III. The evolution of the Scrihalese alphabet from the Brahmi Lipi IV. An index of the sidet of known inscriptions is provided with detailed description ou their location and type V. An alphabetical list of inscriptions (published and unpublished) is also provided, giving references to an published inscriptions VI. The development of epigraphical studies in Ceylon since the deciphelment of the Brahmi Lipi upto 1948 VII. (a) Eight maps are provided cidicaling the siles of the inscriptions of different periods (b) one palaeographical chart are provided with complete bramcribed tables of Roman scripti. Conclusion - It is evident that the inscriptions of Asoka, from the subsequent inscriptions of Karle ami Nasih influence the evolution of the Scrihalex alphabet. It is shown that the Brahmi Lipi conlicei in use side by side with the primitive Scrihalex script for about - this cenbiries than it did on Western India considerably lalei than has hilherb been belived, Attention is drawn to the importance of the palaeographical evidence for The study of language and the technology of writing.