* It varied greatly based on individual talent, motivation, and learning methods. Just like learning any language, some people are naturally gifted at it, while others struggle.
* Cuneiform wasn't just one language. It was a writing system used for many different languages over a long period, from Sumerian to Akkadian to Babylonian and more. Each language would have its own unique challenges.
* The purpose of learning cuneiform also mattered. Was it for basic literacy, scholarly study, or professional work (like a scribe)? Each goal required a different level of mastery.
Here's what we can say:
* Basic literacy: It's estimated that a student could learn to read and write basic cuneiform texts within a few months of dedicated study.
* Advanced mastery: Achieving a high level of fluency in cuneiform, including understanding complex literary works and writing in a nuanced and elegant style, would take years of dedicated study.
Think of it like learning a modern language:
* Basic conversational fluency: Possible in a few months with intensive study.
* Academic reading and writing: Takes years of dedicated study.
* Literary translation and composition: Requires years of in-depth study and immersion in the language and culture.
In conclusion: There's no single answer to how long it took to learn cuneiform. It depended heavily on individual factors, the specific language and writing system, and the intended level of mastery.