Cuneiform is considered difficult to learn for several reasons:
* Complex script: Cuneiform uses wedge-shaped marks, and each sign can represent a syllable, a word, or even a whole concept. This means learning a vast number of signs and their meanings.
* No phonetic pronunciation: Unlike alphabets, cuneiform doesn't have a one-to-one relationship between sign and sound. This means deciphering words requires knowledge of the context and the meaning of the signs.
* Limited surviving texts: While there are many cuneiform tablets, complete texts are relatively rare. This makes it harder to learn the language from context and practice.
* No living speakers: Cuneiform has not been spoken for thousands of years, which means there's no native language to help learn the script.
* No standardized script: Different regions and time periods used slightly different signs and even had different variations in the way the signs were written.
However, despite these challenges, it's not impossible to learn cuneiform. With dedication and the right resources, it is achievable. There are online resources, textbooks, and even courses available to help you learn this ancient script.
Here are some resources that may help:
* The Cuneiform Digital Library Initiative (CDLI): [https://cdli.ucla.edu/](https://cdli.ucla.edu/)
* The Ancient Mesopotamian Texts Project: [https://atp.avalon.rochester.edu/](https://atp.avalon.rochester.edu/)
* The Oxford Handbook of Cuneiform Studies: This book is a good resource for learning about the history, development, and structure of cuneiform.
Let me know if you have any other questions.