Linear B: The Mycenaean Writing System
Linear B is the oldest writing system used for the Greek language that has been identified to date. It is distinguished from Linear A , the system used by the Minoans, although it appears to have borrowed many elements from it. It was used during the Mycenaean period, roughly from 1400-1200 BC. In contrast to the alphabet used today, it is not alphabetic. It is syllabic, meaning each symbol corresponds to a syllable. It consists of: 87 syllabograms, which are symbols representing sounds. Ideograms, which are symbols representing objects, such as drawing of a chariot, a boat, or grain. The numerical symbols that follow a decimal system and are among the few elements where Linear A and B coincide completely. Today, it is believed that the Mycenaean adopted it as they found it after their expansion into Crete and the Aegean islands, likely because it was extremely practical for the accounting system. Regarding the numbers, a vertical line (l) represents one, a horizontal line (-) rep...