- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
Then why would it be called "The Index" and not a "Key"? Remember it was also contained in what was called "The Library." An Index inside a Library? That sounds more like there's something else involved beyond the obvious.
Thinking beyond the obvioius... we need to be certain of our interpretation of Index which requries the definition:
"n. pl. in·dex·es or in·di·ces (-d-sz)
Something that serves to guide, point out, or otherwise facilitate reference, especially:
An alphabetized list of names, places, and subjects treated in a printed work, giving the page or pages on which each item is mentioned.
A thumb index.
A table, file, or catalog.
Something that reveals or indicates; a sign: “Her face... was a fair index to her disposition” (Samuel Butler).
A character () used in printing to call attention to a particular paragraph or section. Also called fist, hand.
An indicator or pointer, as on a scientific instrument.
Now, this leads one to believe that it may be much more then a control mechanism.