Subclassing hidden class

[Alex Martelli]

John Smith wrote:

> Is there a quick way to subclass that usually use a constructor function
> to return objects?
> For example,
> 
>>>> import numarray
>>>> class myarray(numarray.array):
>  pass
> 
> Traceback (most recent call last):
>   File "<pyshell#36>", line 1, in ?
>     class myarray(numarray.array):
> TypeError: cannot create 'function' instances
> 
> I know there is probably a way to subclass numarray.array by tracing the
> sorce code. But I wonder if
> there is a better way.

Only if a type WANTS to be subclassed, can you subclass it.  I.e.:
you can try

class myarray(type(numarray.array(0))):
    pass

but that will work if and ONLY if that type is set up to allow you to
subclass it.


> Or, is there an easier way to create a wrapper class without define all
> the methods?  Thanks

Sure, http://aspn.activestate.com/ASPN/Cookbook/Python/Recipe/52295

I discuss it a bit better in the printed edition of the Cookbook, but
I think the key idea is well exhibited even in this online version.


Alex