What form of writing would an anthropologist need to understand to interpret written stories of Mesopotamia?

The correct answer is cuneiform because it is the writing system developed by the ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia around 3200 BCE. Understanding cuneiform is crucial for an anthropologist interpreting written stories from this region, as it encompasses various forms of script used to write multiple languages, such as Sumerian and Akkadian, throughout Mesopotamian history. The ability to read cuneiform would enable the anthropologist to access and analyze primary sources, such as myths, epics, and administrative documents, that provide insight into the culture, beliefs, and history of ancient Mesopotamia.

The other writing options, such as hieroglyphics, were specific to ancient Egypt and would not be applicable for interpreting Mesopotamian texts. Latin script is a writing system that has its origins in the Roman culture, making it unrelated to the ancient narratives of Mesopotamia. Runes are associated with Germanic languages and cultures, particularly in Northern Europe, and are not pertinent to Mesopotamian studies either. Hence, cuneiform stands out as the essential script for understanding the literary and cultural heritage of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.