You're Dead to Me

Cuneiform (Radio Edit)

9 snips
Jun 20, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Moudhy Al-Rashid, an Assyriologist from Oxford, and comedian Phil Wang dive into the fascinating world of cuneiform, the oldest writing system. They explore how this ancient script reveals daily life in Mesopotamia, including everything from beer sales to marital disputes. Insights into the Epic of Gilgamesh and the deciphering journey of cuneiform are shared, along with humorous anecdotes about early written correspondence. The resilience of women like Laa Tubashini is highlighted, connecting past struggles to present-day issues.
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INSIGHT

Cuneiform Origins and Usage

  • Cuneiform is a wedge-shaped script, not a language, developed around 3000 BCE in Mesopotamia.
  • It was used by multiple cultures and languages including Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians.
INSIGHT

Cuneiform's Evolving Structure

  • Cuneiform started as word signs and evolved to include syllables, making it adaptable for different languages.
  • This mix of word and syllable signs facilitated its use beyond original Sumerian language.
ANECDOTE

Cushim: Ancient Beer Brewer

  • Cushim, an early named beer brewer, managed massive barley quantities for brewing over years.
  • This shows how brewing was part of organized administrative systems with named individuals.
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