Utilizing the Python Interpreter

In this chapter, we will talk about the Python interpreter, both as an interactive tool and for launching Python programs. Specifically, we will cover:

• Launching Python environments
• Utilizing Python command options
• Working with environment variables
• Making scripts executable
• Modifying interactive interpreter startup
• Alternative Python implementations
• Installing Python on Windows
• Embedding Python with other applications
• Using alternative Python shells – IPython
• Using alternative Python shells – bpython
• Using alternative Python shells – DreamPie