Multilingualism: Understanding Linguistic Diversity (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781441126955)

HOW DO LANGUAGES LIVE AND DIE?

WHAT ROLE DOES TRANSLATION PLAY IN HELPING LANGUAGES TO THRIVE?

ARE POLYGLOTS VIEWED WITH SUSPICION, GIVEN THE LINKS BETWEEN LANGUAGE AND IDENTITY?

IS THE MAINTENANCE AND REVIVAL OF FLAGGING LANGUAGES WORTH THE EFFORT?

CAN A LANGUAGE REMAIN 'PURE'?

IF LANGUAGE PATTERNS CONSTANTLY ALTER, WHAT DOES THIS SAY ABOUT IDENTITY?

Multilingualism is everywhere in a globalized society. This book looks at the origins and development of languages, at language contact and competition, and at the emergence and the consequences of multilingualism. Edwards also examines lingua francas, pidgins, creoles and artificial languages as a part of a broader snapshot of the social life of language.

This compelling short introduction is required reading for all entry-level students of multilingualism, and a primer for language lovers in general.

Author: John Edwards
ISBN-10: 1441126953
ISBN-13: 9781441126955
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Language: English
Published: 04/19/2012
Pages: 152
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.40lbs
Size: 7.70h x 5.00w x 0.50d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 11/01/2012