Synopses & Reviews
An informative guide to the ever-changing world of languages. The origins of language have long been the subject of myth and conjecture. Today, scientists and scholars are rendering these origins less obscure with clues from linguistic and archaeological evidence. Written by a panel of eminent linguists, The Atlas of Languages, Revised Edition guides the general reader through the mysterious and exciting world of languages and linguistics. In a detailed account of the language families of each region of the world, this comprehensive work identifies and explains interesting and sometimes unique features of vocabulary and grammar. The evolution of more than 200 languages and their deep-seated similarities as well as surprising differences are revealed in clear, precise language. The writing systems of the world are also examined in some detail, and the issue of disappearing languages is addressed. Languages that are threatened with extinction, as local languages vanish along with traditional ways of life, are identified, and efforts to preserve and revive them are reviewed within this framework. Illuminating the informative text are photographs; full-color maps that reflect the historical and contemporary geographical distribution of languages; fascinating box features that highlight points of general interest; and an extensive glossary.
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. 219-220) and index.