[If] one read it discontinuously, or while half asleep, he has fulfilled his obligation. If one was writing it, expounding upon it, or correcting it, provided he had intent, he fulfilled his obligation; if not, he did not fulfill his obligation.  [If] it was written with orpiment, vermilion, gum, or ferrous sulfate, or on paper, or on unfinished parchment, he did not fulfill his obligation, unless it is written in Assyrian [script] on parchment and with ink.

A townsman who went to a walled city, or a city dweller who went to a town, if he intends to return to his home, he reads [at the same time] as in his home; but if not, he reads with them.  From what part of the Megillah must one read in order to fulfill his obligation? R’ Meir says: All of it. R’ Yehudah says: From There was a Jewish man. R’ Yose says: From After these things.