Altsasuko elizako euskal epigrafeak

Abstract

In this work I study some inscriptions in Basque that were carved on a wall of the Church of Altsasu (Navarre) and that have just been discovered. I give an account of the location, size, and status of the inscriptions until they were covered at some point in time by the rectory, explaining where and how they were. I have also made a paleographic and semipaleographic edition of the texts. Moreover, I explain the sociohistorical context of this type of epigraphy. In fact, I show that, since the early modern period, and under the shadow of the Counter-Reformation, such public moral messages proliferated on purpose. As such, I identify some analogue texts scattered here and there, and analyze their sources. I also study the language variety, in contrast to the old texts of the area and the current Basque language in Burunda. I argue that they are texts of a certain level, but made for reaching anyone. I also highlight the tools and problems of dating, and the sociolinguistic importance they have given to the fact that they are rare in Basque.