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- The cuneiform writing system was contemporary to the Harappan script .
Two scripts, one readable
Only one can be read
1. Cuneiform
Deciphered, so readable
Example:
Myths
Hymns
Law codes
Records
2. Harappan script
Not yet deciphered
Example:
Seals
Pottery marks
- So for Mesopotamia we can read their myths, hymns, laws and records , and know the names of their kings, gods and cities .
- For the Harappans we have material evidence - buildings, seals, beads and pottery.
- We also have their writing . But it cannot be read.
Once a script can be read, a civilisation stops being silent. Until then we can see what people did , but never what they thought .
NCERT question · LET US RECALL, page 81
The cuneiform writing system was contemporary to the Harappan script, but while cuneiform has been deciphered, the Harappan script has not yet been deciphered. Do you think our understanding of a civilisation changes when its script is deciphered compared to when it is not?
