Relative Modelling in Namescape Mapping: A New Re-presentational Approach for Spatializing Narratives. Issue 2 (September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Butler, James
• Is Part Of: International journal of humanities and arts computing. Volume 16:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 230
• Page End: 245
• Publication Date: 2022-09
• Subjects: literary mapping -- place-names -- GIS -- spatial analysis -- macro-maps; Humanities -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Arts -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 001.30285
• DOI: 10.3366/ijhac.2022.0292
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-8548

Abstract

Abstract : Onomastic sweeps can be effective in extracting lists of place-names from texts, but identification alone is insufficient to compile a true map of spatiality. Key inferential information is stripped away that situates a named place within a broad range of potential contextual states that are more than just a Boolean 'inclusion'. Conventional geoparsing and onymic approaches necessarily treat every name as holding an equal status in a work, but this is not the case. Rather, a topologically led approach to mapping namescapes offers a more accurate means of re-presenting – and engaging with – the namescape for any text, no matter its relation to the real mappable world. As well as providing a neutral platform for comparing spatial priorities across any texts, no matter how disparate they may be stylistically. This proposed methodological reprioritization allows for a critical focus on the contextual role and relation between named entities, enabling detailed inquiries into the complex referential operation of names as inter- and intra-locative tokens. This article will use the opening chapter of Bram Stoker's Dracula as a demonstrative exemplar to highlight both the semantic difficulties in identifying referential utilization and how a relation approach offers new interpretative and critical stylometric angles for literary analysis.