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AI helps us decipher ancient texts, and in the process rewriting history


Published on 2025-01-03 09:02:20 - MSN
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  • Contestants in the Vesuvius Challenge had to develop their own programs to interpret existing 3D scans of the coiled scroll, with the virtual-unwrapping step being the bottleneck.

The article from MSN discusses how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the study of ancient texts, thereby reshaping historical understanding. AI technologies, including machine learning and natural language processing, are being utilized to translate, interpret, and analyze texts from ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome. These tools help in deciphering previously unreadable scripts, identifying patterns, and correcting errors in translations that have persisted for centuries. For instance, AI has been instrumental in projects like the decipherment of Linear B, an ancient script used by the Mycenaean civilization, and in enhancing the readability of damaged texts from Herculaneum. This technological aid not only accelerates the pace of research but also brings to light new interpretations and insights, potentially altering our understanding of historical events, cultures, and languages. The integration of AI in this field exemplifies a broader trend where technology aids in uncovering and reinterpreting the past, making history a dynamic and ever-evolving field of study.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/technology/artificial-intelligence/ai-helps-us-decipher-ancient-texts-and-in-the-process-rewriting-history/ar-AA1wTu4P ]
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