* Preservation of knowledge: Cuneiform allowed the Sumerians to record their history, myths, literature, laws, and daily life on clay tablets. These tablets have survived for millennia, providing an unparalleled source of information about their culture.
* Deciphering the language: Although the Sumerian language is unrelated to any modern language, the use of cuneiform provided a key for linguists to decipher it. Once the symbols were understood, scholars could begin to translate the tablets and learn about the Sumerian worldview, beliefs, and societal structures.
* Detailed insights: Cuneiform tablets revealed fascinating details about Sumerian life:
* Religion: We learned about their pantheon of gods and goddesses, their rituals, and their beliefs about the afterlife.
* Society: We gained insight into their social hierarchy, legal systems, and economic practices.
* Art and literature: We discovered their epic poems, hymns, and other literary works, giving us a glimpse into their artistic sensibilities.
* Science and mathematics: Cuneiform records revealed their advancements in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.
Without cuneiform, our knowledge of the Sumerians would be incredibly limited. We might have some archaeological evidence, but the rich tapestry of their civilization, their thoughts, and their beliefs would be lost to history.
Here's an analogy: Imagine trying to learn about a modern society without any written records. You might have some photographs and physical objects, but you would have no way to understand their language, beliefs, or complex social interactions. Cuneiform provided the Sumerians with a similar level of documentation, allowing us to understand their civilization in extraordinary detail.