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How can I make my own C++ compiler understand templates, nested classes, etc. strong features of C++?


It is a university task in my group to write a compiler of C-like language. Of course I am going to implement a small part of our beloved C++.
The exact task is absolutely stupid, and the lecturer told us it need to be self-compilable (should be able to compile itself) - so, he meant not to use libraries such as Boost and STL.
He also does not want us to use templates because it is hard to implement.
The question is - is it real for me, as I`m going to write this project on my own, with the deadline at the end of May - the middle of June (this year), to implement not only templates, but also nested classes, namespaces, virtual functions tables at the level of syntax analysis?
PS I am not noobie in C++


Solution

  • Stick to doing a C compiler.

    Believe me, it's hard enough work building a decent C compiler, especially if its expected to compile itself. Trying to support all the C++ features like nested classes and templates will drive you insane. Perhaps a group could do it, but on your own, I think a C compiler is more than enough to do.

    If you are dead set on this, at least implement a C-like language first (so you have something to hand in). Then focus on showing off.