Characterie: an Arte of Shorte, Swifte, and Secrete Writing by Character

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June 24, 2026

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Characterie: an Arte of Shorte, Swifte, and Secrete Writing by Character was an English shorthand system designed by Timothy Bright in 1588. This system utilized straight lines, circles, and half circles, differing from earlier cursive methods like the Roman notae Tironianae.1

Shorthand, also known as stenography, tachygraphy, or brachygraphy, is a method of rapid writing using symbols or abbreviations for letters, words, or phrases. Its purpose is to quickly record speech, such as in legislative sessions, court testimonies, or business dictation. Historically, shorthand has been used to preserve important works, including plays, diaries, and sermons.1

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shorthand
History and development of shorthand
) Bright’s system was called Characterie: an Arte of Shorte, Swifte, and Secrete Writing by Character.
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) Bright’s system was called Characterie: an Arte of Shorte, Swifte, and Secrete Writing by Character.
Read More