Tekstblad uit J. Struys, Albonus en Rosimonda treur-spel, 1631 1612 - 1655

This is a text page from J. Struys's "Albonus en Rosimonda treur-spel," created in 1631 by Cornelis Willemsz Blaeu-Laken. The composition is dominated by the arrangement of text blocks, where bold character styles denote the cast of characters in the play. Notice how the varying font sizes create a visual hierarchy, guiding the reader's eye through the list. The stark contrast between the dense, black lettering and the off-white paper creates a graphic tension. This is not just a list; it’s a structured presentation that hints at the play’s narrative architecture. The page functions as a semiotic system, where each name serves as a signifier, evoking layers of meaning. Even without knowing the play, the roles—King, Queen, Governor—immediately suggest a world of power, status, and intrigue. The typography itself becomes a visual code, reinforcing these hierarchical structures. It challenges us to consider how even the most functional elements of a text can operate on a symbolic level. The page's formal qualities highlight the enduring interplay between text and meaning, reflecting broader cultural and philosophical inquiries into representation and interpretation.