Type Variation and the Problem of Cartographic Type Legibility

Abstract

An analysis of the varied functions of lettering on the map suggests that typographic appearance and arrangement on the map may be viewed with respect to a symbolic-analogic continuum. Type is considered to be: 1. Symbolic; 2. Analogic—a. Locative analogy, b. Quality analogy and c. Quantity analogy (or value analogy). A review of the cartographic literature having to do with the conception and treatment of "legibility" reveals that its content is derived primarily from typographic research done in non-cartographic context. Since it can be shown that type on maps is unique in several ways, the applicability of that research is questioned.