Modular Interpreters for the Masses: Implicit Context Propagation Using Object Algebras
Modular interpreters have the potential to achieve component-based language development: instead of writing language interpreters from scratch, they can be assembled from reusable, semantic building blocks. Unfortunately, traditional language interpreters are hard to extend because different language constructs may require different interpreter signatures. For instance, arithmetic interpreters only produce a value, whereas binding constructs require and additional environment. In this paper, we present a practical solution to this problem based on implicit context propagation. By structuring denotational-style interpreters as Object Algebras, base interpreters can be retro-actively lifted into new interpreters that have an extended signature. The additional parameters are implicitly propagated behind the scenes, through the evaluation of the base interpreter. Interpreter lifting enables a flexible style of component-based language development. The technique works in mainstream object-oriented languages, does not sacrifice type safety or separate compilation, and can be easily automated. We illustrate implicit context propagation using a modular definition of Featherweight Java and its extension to support side-effects.
Tue 27 Oct
15:30 - 16:00 Talk | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
16:00 - 16:30 Talk | Jaime FontSan Jorge University, Lorena ArcegaSan Jorge University, Oystein HaugenØstfold University College, Carlos CetinaSan Jorge University | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
16:30 - 17:00 Talk | Christoph SeidlTechnische Universität Braunschweig, Sven SchusterTechnische Universität Braunschweig, Ina Schaefer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
17:00 - 17:20 Talk | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
17:20 - 17:30 Day closing |