On the other hand if you already have the Arduino, fetch the avr.isp.03 firmware and AVRdude. Then program a device, for example an ATtiny13 using the Ardunio as the programmer.

Although Arduino's programming language is based on C++, you won't be able to use all of its commands. But, you can still use objects in Arduino's IDE, which are a fundamental aspect of C++.

The tutorial is fairly straightforward, and even demonstrates how the Arduino can be used as an ISP for the ATtiny, removing the need to purchase a standalone programmer.