Multilingualism
Understanding Linguistic Diversity
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Continuum Publishing Corporation
Published:16th Feb '12
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
Examines the dynamics of a multilingual planet, offering us a snapshot of a globalized society.
Multilingualism is everywhere in a globalized society. This book looks at its consequences, from the development of multilingual communities to language competition and variation. Edwards examines lingua francas, pidgins, creoles and artificial languages on the way to developing a snapshot of the social life of language. The book asks: How far a role does translation play in helping multilingualism to thrive? Are polyglots viewed with suspicion, given the links between language and identity? Is language maintenance and revival worth the effort? Can a language remain 'pure'? And if languages constantly shift, what does this say about identity?This compelling and beautifully written short introduction is required reading for all entry-level students of multilingualism, and a primer for language lovers in general.
John Edwards has written a book about everything that happens when languages meet, a book about ‘the social life of language'. With his encyclopaedic knowledge he composed a small but complete encyclopedia of multilingualism that has an intriguing fact or an original insight on every page. Before readers realize that the subject-matter is complicated, they have already understood it, since Edwards wears his knowledge lightly and writes with apparent ease. A book for everyone who has to cope with diverse languages, that is, according to this book, nearly everyone. -- Abram de Swaan, Emeritus Professor of Social Science, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Divided into 10 chapters on themes such as language diversity, multilingualism, bridging means across languages, language survival and intervention, this is the most readable textbook I have ever come across... This seemingly light yet profoundly rich book, with its span across the entire language diversity scene, cannot fail to spark enthusiasm... Its apparent simplicity, clarity and colourful asides make it an unforgettable reading experience. * Times Higher Education Supplement (Textbook Guide) *
ISBN: 9781441123480
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
152 pages