FOUR CIRCLES Challenge
R. Sale > 15-03-2025, 08:15 PM
Another week, another proposed Voynichese translation / interpretation. Someone asked if there was a way to test a proposed solution, the most apparent being a demonstration, where any random page might do well enough, but perhaps there are some more interesting, potentially better choices.
In lieu of the complete textual rendition of the VMs, any or all examples of four folios of circular text might be an adequate challenge. They are the outer ring of the cosmos, the outer circle of White Aries, the circular text in the central Rosette, and the four lines associated with the moon and wreath (middle of f85r2-f86v6). Better choices require reasons and for the first three, the reason is the presence of Stolfi's markers. Stolfi's markers constitute a functional mechanism for the dispersal and reconstitution of a hidden text. While the matter of actual versus potential usage is still awaiting a valid translation, there is the clear, physical connection on VMs White Aries of a text marker with a potential heraldic insignia of real historical significance.
The rosette text bands have variously designed markers. The central rosette has two markers that follow the quatrefoil pattern. The last of the circles has no marker, just a clear, blank space dividing four circular lines of text. A hidden text could be constructed as easy as (1) one marker in the cosmos; (2) two markers in the central rosette; (3) three markers in the zodiac sequence. Structure can be demonstrated, but was it created and invested with meaning??
While there are other interesting possible folios, making a sensible and verifiable translation of these four examples would be a most promising start.