An object-oriented programming methodology for a conventional programming environment

Describes a programming methodology which implements many object-oriented features within a conventional programming environment. The methodology is unique in that it does not rely on special keywords, language extensions, compilers or special purpose hardware. The object-oriented features are implemented by applying a programming discipline and following a set of conventions. The significant features of the methodology are the following: objects are represented by a C structure and a set of C functions; objects are organized within a tree-like class hierarchy; inheritance of instance variables is achieved by nesting class structures; method inheritance is achieved by hierarchically linking class objects; message passing is implemented within a small number of functions hidden inside the messenger object. An object-oriented language has been developed along with an interpreter which provides interactive communication with all the objects