DM

Module 8: The Origins and Functions of Writing

Module 8 Overview

  • The objective of this module is to understand writing's origins, its connection to state power, urbanism, and social differentiation.

1. Recognizing Arguments Regarding the Origin of Writing

  • Writing is perceived as a significant milestone in human evolution, enabling the documentation and transmission of knowledge.

2. Analyzing Historical Links Between Writing, State Power, Urbanism, and Social Differentiation

  • The emergence of writing is tied to the development of urban centers and centralized political structures.

3. Writing: Its Original Functions

3.1 Collective Learning & Power

  • Definition of Writing: Writing is defined as a method of storing speech information through a predefined set of visual symbols.
  • Complexity of Acquiring Writing and Reading:
    • Acquired Tastes: Writing and reading are considered acquired skills and are more complex than natural spoken communication.
    • Cognitive Factors: Humans have not evolved specialized brain structures or organs specifically for reading and writing, making these skills harder to learn compared to speaking and listening.
    • Challenges: Learning to write and read is time-consuming and challenging.

4. The Origins of Writing in Mesopotamia (9000-4000 ybp)

4.1 The Use of Writing Systems

  • Simple Tokens: Early forms of tokens used for counting and basic record-keeping related to trade.
  • Complex Tokens: Advanced tokens employed for organizing and managing trade goods. This innovation marked the beginnings of writing development.
  • Cuneiform Tablets:
    • Example: A clay tablet dating back to around 3000 BCE featuring wedge-shaped writing for communication purposes.
    • Purpose: Writing was created to record information that was otherwise too cumbersome to remember.
    • Notable Mention: Sumerian is cited as the oldest written language. An example includes a cuneiform tablet from 2039 BCE documenting wages for day laborers.
  • Egyptian Hieroglyphics: Used on papyrus, with records possibly dating to around 3400 BCE.

5. State Power and Social Control

5.1 The Laws of Hammurabi

  • Overview: The legal code established by Hammurabi, the sixth king of Babylon (r. 1792-1750 BCE).
  • Discussion Points:
    1. Resident Experience: Exploring what Babylon residents might have felt when hearing or reading the law code and its intended societal purpose.
    2. Features of State Power: Identifying aspects of state control reflected within the text.
    3. Lawful vs. Unlawful Life: Examination of how the passage delineates norms of lawful behavior.
    4. Class Distinctions: Evidence of social stratification in Babylon is considered.

6. Examples of Early Writing in Various Cultures

6.1 Chinese Oracle Bones (circa 1200 BCE)

  • Early written characters found inscribed on oracle bones, used for divination.

6.2 Maya Script (3rd Century BCE)

  • Written characters that contributed to the rich cultural narrative of the Maya civilization.

6.3 Inca Quipu

  • Description: A system of record-keeping using knotted cords, serving a similar purpose to writing.

7. Later Uses of Writing

  • Writing was harnessed for various narrative forms, including:
    • Story of the Flood: A significant myth disseminated through writing.
    • Neo-Assyrian Texts: Found on clay tablets, sharing historical and cultural insights.
    • Epic of Gilgamesh: A prominent literary work that emphasizes the intertwined relationship between writing and the reinforcement of power.

8. Ideologies Related to Writing

8.1 Kingship Ideology

  • The narrative presents the notion that “Kingship is good, and I am a good king,” a declaration linked to Sumerian King Gudea (r. 2141-2122 BCE).
  • Ideological Narratives: Myths and epics, such as the "Epic of Gilgamesh" (originally Sumerian), serve to communicate and reinforce societal norms and power structures.

8.2 Uruk and the Epic of Gilgamesh

  • Discussion: Delving into the feelings of Uruk residents while engaging with the narrative.
  • Purpose: The narrative aimed at illustrating the relationship between divinity and monarchy, branding the king as a bridge between gods and humans.
  • Features of State Power: Common elements depicted in the text include symbols, characters, and images representing state authority and influence.