Phonological reconstruction of a dead language using the gradual learning algorithm
Eric Smith · 2007
This paper discusses the reconstruction of the Elamite language's phonology from its orthography using the Gradual Learning Algorithm, which was re-purposed to "learn" underlying phonological forms from surface orthography. Practical issues are raised regarding the difficulty of mapping between orthography and phonology, and Optimality Theory's neglected Lexicon Optimization module is highlighted.