An Introduction to the Study of the Maya Hieroglyphs

The work provides an accessible survey of Maya hieroglyphic writing, summarizing past investigations and explaining the calendar, numeration, and astronomical inscriptions that have been largely deciphered. It analyzes the glyphic system's predominantly ideographic character alongside emerging phonetic elements, outlines methods used in decipherment, and discusses why many signs remain obscure. The author illustrates glyph types with examples from inscriptions and codices, assesses what surviving texts likely record about historical events, and offers a guide to further readings and practical approaches for students beginning study.