Manuscript variants refer to the differences found in various copies of a text, often due to errors in transcription, intentional changes by scribes, or regional adaptations. These differences can include alterations in wording, spelling, or even the order of passages, which can significantly affect the interpretation of the text. Scholars study manuscript variants to understand the history and evolution of a work, such as those of William Shakespeare or ancient religious texts like the Bible. By comparing these variants, researchers can gain insights into the cultural and historical contexts in which the manuscripts were produced.