A script is a structured system of written symbols that represents a language. Humans utilize scripts to convey intricate ideas, document knowledge, and perform various social, cultural, and administrative tasks. Unlike spoken language, which is fleeting, scripts establish a lasting record of communication.
The Brahmi script is classified as an abugida. This distinctive system features consonants that inherently possess vowel sounds, which can be modified through the addition of marks, known as matras, placed above, below, before, or after the consonant. This unique structure combines the adaptability of alphabets with the straightforward nature of syllabaries.
The term Brahmi is derived from Brahma, the creator deity in Hinduism, symbolizing the script's divine roots. Jain mythology further enriches this narrative, stating that Rishabhadeva imparted writing skills to his daughter Brahmi, thus embedding a spiritual significance within Jain traditions as well.
The ancient Sumerians utilized cuneiform, a script characterized by wedge-shaped marks imprinted into clay tablets. Initially developed as a logographic script, where each symbol represented a complete word, cuneiform evolved around 2800 BC into a syllabary, aiming to better capture sounds and spoken language.
Despite engaging in trade with the Sumerians, the Harappans chose not to adopt cuneiform. Instead, they likely created their own writing system tailored to their language and cultural context. The adoption of scripts is often shaped by local linguistic structures, religious beliefs, and social norms.
Around 1200 BC, the Phoenicians introduced a groundbreaking script that utilized only consonants, known as an abjad. This innovation simplified the writing process and made it more adaptable. The Phoenician script laid the groundwork for several modern scripts, including Hebrew, Aramaic, Arabic, and Persian, marking a significant advancement in the accessibility and efficiency of written communication.
For aspiring civil servants, understanding the historical evolution of scripts provides valuable insights into effective communication. As we learn from the past, we recognize that well-crafted communication fosters enduring connections within governance and society.
Q1. What is the main function of a script?
Answer: A script's primary function is to represent spoken language through written symbols, facilitating communication of complex ideas and preserving knowledge across generations.
Q2. What makes Brahmi unique compared to other scripts?
Answer: Brahmi is unique as an abugida, where consonants have inherent vowel sounds, allowing flexibility in pronunciation and creating a distinct writing system that combines features of alphabets and syllabaries.
Q3. How did cuneiform evolve over time?
Answer: Cuneiform evolved from a logographic system, where symbols represented entire words, to a syllabary around 2800 BC, enhancing its ability to represent sounds and spoken language effectively.
Q4. Why did the Harappans create their own script?
Answer: The Harappans likely developed a unique script to better accommodate their specific linguistic and cultural needs, reflecting the influence of local languages and societal structures instead of adopting cuneiform.
Q5. What is the significance of the Phoenician writing system?
Answer: The Phoenician writing system's use of consonants simplified writing, setting the foundation for many modern scripts, which significantly improved the accessibility and efficiency of written language.
Question 1: What type of writing system is Brahmi classified as?
A) Logographic
B) Abugida
C) Alphabet
D) Syllabary
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which ancient civilization first used cuneiform?
A) Egyptians
B) Harappans
C) Sumerians
D) Phoenicians
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What innovation did the Phoenicians bring to writing systems?
A) Use of vowels
B) Use of only consonants
C) Logographic symbols
D) Syllabic writing
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What does the term 'abjad' refer to in writing?
A) A script with no vowels
B) A type of syllabary
C) A logographic script
D) An alphabetic system
Correct Answer: A
Question 5: Who is associated with teaching writing in Jain mythology?
A) Brahma
B) Rishabhadeva
C) Mahavira
D) Gautama Buddha
Correct Answer: B
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