Expert: Kaylan - 2/1/2004

Question
Dear Sir,

I often cite the J.-P. Migne Latin and Greek series of texts using the very long form, so to speak (unless I later reference the same text then, of course, use a shorter citation).

It has dawned on me gradually that when I see, e.g., (PL something, something, something) said notation references the Patrologiae Latina (or PG the Graeca [?]--but how, and please see next para., is this done when there are both texts, G & L, extant); but I need some "formal" way, a written guide (?), of knowing how to cite those. I need a gentle "ramp" leading from one on a lower level of humble station, to one of advanced "degree", to the higher heights of biblical notationship. Were you so "inclined" (ha, ha), I am confident from having read your qualifications, you would know either the answer off the cuff, or would know how to find it.

By the by, I had read somewhere that the J.-P. Migne series texts had utilized the device of--if there were a Greek text--of translating the Greek into Latin (the scholarly language), so if one were essaying a monograph, would he must needs give both texts, or just the "original", meaning, de rigueur, because autographs non-existent, just the text coming from antiquity?  Any hints to a handbook for many other "shorthand" citations would be tremendously appreciated.

As I do independant study, am not affiliated with a university or foundation, I am unable to access the electronic eds. of Migne.  Would that I were able so to do!!!  Searches that venue (via keyword electronic 'find' options) are so much easier, saving thousands of hours of reading.

Pardon the length, please.

R. R. Waesche III

Answer
Indeed, I believe your intellect far exceeds mine...if I may humbly say. Let me direct you to another more proficient in your choice of study.

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