Phonetic Attributions of Undeciphered Characters: The Case of *56 in Linear B

Abstract

After the decipherment of Linear B and the attribution of phonetic values to most signs, several others still remain undeciphered. Any attempt to reconstruct their phonetic value is beset with difficulties. In this paper we will attempt to set out some basic principles for making reconstructions of undeciphered characters in well-studied scripts. We shall then look specifically at the range of evidence available and the various theories built around the decipherment of sign *56 trying to construct a strong argument in favour of one possible phonetic attribution. In doing so we shall comment on the strengths and weaknesses of the various arguments, thus illuminating the usefulness of such principles in making a secure attribution