A Geography of the Welsh Language, 1961-1991

(Paperback)

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Description

Language serves as both a symbol and a definer of culture. The well-being and integrity of a culture depend heavily on the strength and vitality of its associated language. It is for this reason that the process of language change within particular cultures needs to be monitored and scrutinized. This volume is a map-based analysis of patterns of language change, specifically the Welsh language. It concludes that the prime influences on the language derive from the large-scale socio-economic changes which have taken place in western society as a whole since the end of World War II.

Reviews

". . . an important and comprehensive source of information on the Welsh language - yesterday, today and tomorrow. As such it should grace every library - public, private and educational - not only in Wales, but in neighbouring countries. Even casual reference to its contents should educate and help reduce ignorance and remove prejudice." -Books in Wales

". . . provides thought-provoking material to those interested in language survival and revival. Linguists specialising in these areas, as well as in the Celtic languages in general, will wish to read this well-done and clear study of shifting tides in linguistic geography." -Word

Author Bio

J. W. Aitchison, Gregynog Professor of Geography, Institute of Earth Studies, and Director of the International Centre for Protected Landscapes, University College of Wales, Aberystwyth and Harold Carter, Former Gregynog Professor of Geography, now retired.