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Comments on Etymology

REFLECTIONS ON LINEAR B: AN EGYPTIAN HIEROGLYPHIC COMPONENT, (Draft #2)1

Language(s)

English

Abstract

Most Linear B signs are presently regarded as being of unknown origin, with a general consensus that Egyptian hieroglyphs are at best of minimal help in solving the mysteries. But the present article revisits this subject and suggests that the Egyptian hieroglyphic component goes beyond a borrowing or two. Along the way I noticed that for some Linear B signs a familiarity with Egyptian religious mythology is essential in this effort.

For example, the mysterious Linear B sign 75 is pronounced /we/ and looks like a backwards letter S. I suggest it can be explained as the cobra goddess Wadjet / Wedjat in miniature form on the headdress of the pharaoh. As is well known to Egyptologists, this cobra (termed a 'uraeus ') is in coiled position to protect the pharaoh by spitting fire at any foe. And this coiled position somewhat resembles the curves of a backwards letter S.

Other Egyptian gods and their symbols of royalty also seem to appear in Linear B, with protection / care being a key concern, whether for the here-and-now or for the afterlife.

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