Bril: An Intermediate Language for Teaching Compilers

Adrian Sampson from Cornell University developed Bril, an intermediate language designed specifically for teaching compilers. The language aims to provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing students to implement algorithms without the complexity of industrial compiler APIs. Bril is characterized by its simplicity, regular syntax, and ease of use, making it accessible for students with varying levels of familiarity with compilers. It is structured as a JSON document, which facilitates quick integration with various programming languages and tools, promoting collaboration among students.

Bril prioritizes educational goals over traditional compiler performance metrics, such as code size and execution speed. It features a unique design that includes a core opcode for printing, which simplifies example creation, and employs a more A-normal form than typical intermediate languages. This design choice, while verbose, aids in teaching by standardizing how constants are handled.

The language is extensible, allowing students to contribute tools and features, although this has led to some management challenges within the ecosystem. Bril also includes a non-SSA form, which helps students understand the implications of mutable variables before transitioning to SSA concepts. Despite some design flaws, particularly regarding its SSA implementation, Bril has evolved through student contributions, enhancing its functionality and usability in educational settings.