A Recursive Encoding for Cuneiform Signs

TL;DR

This paper introduces a recursive encoding method for cuneiform signs that facilitates easier lookup, rendering, and digital processing of signs and tablets, improving pedagogy and digital humanities tools.

Contribution

It presents a novel recursive encoding scheme for cuneiform signs and algorithms for sign lookup and rendering, advancing digital cuneiform studies.

Findings

Enhanced sign lookup efficiency

New digital rendering methods

Improved pedagogical tools

Abstract

One of the most significant problems in cuneiform pedagogy is the process of looking up unknown signs, which often involves a tedious page-by-page search through a sign list. This paper proposes a new "recursive encoding" for signs, which represents the arrangement of strokes in a way a computer can process. A series of new algorithms then offers students a new way to look up signs by any distinctive component, as well as providing new ways to render signs and tablets electronically.