The MARKUS text analysis and reading platform is a multi-faceted tool that allows users to access a range of online reference tools while reading texts in literary Chinese, and/or to tag and extract any kind of information of interest to them. In addition to names already present in China Biographical Databate and China Historical GIS, users can tag words or expressions by uploading their own lists or by using the keyword help tools.
The March 2015 release includes:
- improvements in automated markup: emperor names have been added and alternate names markup improved to reduce superfluous alternate name markup
- inline text editing: correct mistakes or add punctuation to the base text
- switching between markup modes: choose between modes from the left bar; no need to re-upload files
- new keyword markup functionality: automatically discover keywords and select appropriate ones for markup
- additional dictionaries in reading mode: trials for Buddhist and medical term dictionaries
- full Chinese language version
- links to relevant tools: starting with the newly released CBDB name/official title lookup tool
- updated and expanded help text and videos
- FAQ: for technical problems and useful markup tips
We have also added two new tools during the past three weeks: 1) The CBDB Mac Dictionary allows readers to search China Biographical Database by either using Mac OS X integrated Spotlight or by selecting any name or partial name in any software programme; 2) The CBDB Name/Title Lookup helps readers identify persons for whom only part of the name AND an official title or part thereof are known.
We continue to work on improving MARKUS and to add new tools so check back often for updates and get in touch with suggestions or to volunteer to add instructions or videos. If you are using MARKUS for research or teaching we would also like to hear about your findings.
Links to tools:
http://chinese-empires.eu/blog/markus-update-and-new-tools/
Best Wishes,
Hilde
Hilde De Weerdt
Professor of Chinese History
Leiden University
h.g.d.g.de.weerdt@hum.leidenuniv.nl