Question

I’m looking for a method for storing JavaScript objects in a MySQL Style database.

I would like to have the database setup to handle objects, their attribues, and even object references.

Giving me the following grammar:

<object> := list of atributes

<attribute> := integer
            | string
            | boolean
            | object-reference
            | list of attributes

Is there a standart way, or best pratice, of doing this?

I would like to used the database layout to enable filtering based on atribute values.

Answer 1

The reason you are finding it difficult to store your object is because of Object Relational Impedance Mismatch

The object-oriented paradigm is based on proven software engineering
principles. The relational paradigm, however, is based on proven
mathematical principles. Because the underlying paradigms are different the two
technologies do not work together seamlessly.

The impedance mismatch becomes apparent
when you look at the preferred approach to access: With the object
paradigm you traverse objects via their relationships whereas with the
relational paradigm you join the data rows of tables.

If you are stuck with a relational database then you will have to perform mapping between the object model and the relational model. If you are determined to store your objects in the way you describe then you will probably have to change to an Object Database

I have read Agile Database Techniques which covers this topic but I’m sure there are many others. There’s a lot of information out on the web too.