Greek writing system

2.1.2. Writing

2.1.2.1. Linear B

Linear B is a syllabic script. It consists of

150 logograms,
87 syllabic signs, half of which are also used as logograms,
11 symbols for weights and measures,
5 numeral symbols.

The Achaeans created Linear B around -1600 by adapting Linear A, a syllabic script used by the Minoans, to render Mycenaean Greek.

The syllabic signs represent syllables of (C)V structure; consonant groups and consonants in the syllable coda cannot be represented as such.

Greek words in Linear B
phonological form	meaning	Linear B representation
spérma	seed	pe-ma
stathmós	stable	ta-to-mo

The script was deciphered in 1952 by Michael Ventris and John Chadwick, under the hypothesis that the language represented in the texts was Greek.