Definition: The word decipherment is used by archaeologists to refer to the translation of ancient script forms into modern day language. Cracked scripts include cuneiform, Linear B, Egyptian hieroglyphs, and Maya hieroglyphs; undeciphered scripts include Linear A and Inca quipu (assuming the last really is a script). Interestingly, the only written language with a deep enough history to not need decipherment is Chinese, 3500 years old and counting. Scholars known for their deciphering skills include Michael Ventris, Jean-Francois Champollion, Asko Parpola, and Alice Kober.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
