The
<damage> tag with the
degree
attribute should only be used where the text may be read with
confidence despite the damage. It is appropriate where it is desired
to record the fact of damage, though this has not affected the
readability of the text (as may be the case with weathered
inscriptional materials). Where the damage has rendered the text
more or less illegible either the
<unclear> tag (for partial
illegibility) or the
<gap> tag (for complete illegibility,
with no text supplied) should be used, with the information
concerning the damage given in the attribute values of these tags.
See section
11.5.2 Use of the <gap>, <del>, <damage>, <unclear>, and <supplied> Elements in Combination for discussion of the use of these
tags in particular circumstances.