Perl interpreter/compiler architecture

Anonymous Monk has asked for the wisdom of the Perl Monks concerning the following question:

Hello, guys! I can't find a normal easy-to-digest description of the Perl interpreter and compiler(i.e. architecture of Perl environment(runtime and compiler) ). Well,2 b more consice I'm looking for a tutorial similar to "Java VM specification" Thanks. Andrey andrey.chepurko@gmx.de

Comment on Perl interpreter/compiler architecture

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Re (tilly) 1: Perl interpreter/compiler architecture by tilly (Archbishop) on Sep 15, 2000 at 15:57 UTC
There isn't one. Perl interally uses a bytecode representation, but the only definitive definition of it is in the sourcecode. What you likely want is the documentation in perlguts, try `perldoc perlguts` for that. Beyond that both Devel::Peek and B are useful modules for learning about the innards of Perl, as is reading the source-code, etc. Depending upon what kind of project this is for, you may also want to search for documentation on XS, SWIG, or try the Inline module. EDIT Forgot to mention. Creating a real specification is on the wishlist for Perl 6. Initially it sounded like there was a very good chance, but I have not been paying much attention.	[reply]
RE: Re (tilly) 1: Perl interpreter/compiler architecture by t0mas (Priest) on Sep 15, 2000 at 16:14 UTC
Just a compliment to tillys fine answer: There's a Perlguts Illustrated here. If don't want to make the pics yourself in your head... /brother t0mas	[reply]