What was the advantage of cuneiform writing over picture writing?

Cuneiform writing, unlike picture writing, had a significant advantage in its abstract nature and ability to represent both concrete and abstract concepts. Here's a breakdown:

Picture Writing (Pictograms):

* Limited to concrete objects: Each symbol represented a specific object or action, making it difficult to express abstract ideas or complex concepts.

* Dependence on context: The meaning of a pictogram could vary depending on the context in which it was used.

* Limited scalability: The number of pictograms was limited, making it challenging to represent a wide range of ideas.

Cuneiform Writing:

* Abstract symbols: Cuneiform symbols were not pictures but abstract marks, allowing for the representation of sounds, syllables, and even abstract concepts.

* Greater flexibility: This abstract nature allowed for a wider range of expressions, including more complex ideas, abstract thoughts, and even grammar.

* Scalability: The use of syllables and phonetic elements allowed for the creation of a more extensive vocabulary and the representation of a wider range of concepts.

In essence, cuneiform writing evolved from picture writing by becoming more abstract and symbolic, making it much more efficient and powerful in expressing complex thoughts and ideas. This allowed for the development of literature, legal documents, and other forms of written communication that were not possible with simple picture writing.