Multiple varieties of languages co-exist in a complex interrelationship where the society assigns them different tasks. In 1959, Charles Ferguson provided a comprehensive diglossicview of bilingualism by building on the various domains which are essential in macro-analysis of the functional distributions within the speech communities (Ferguson, 1959). These communities are characterized two or more languages used in intra-societal communications. Diglossia is generally defined as a situation where two different language varieties are spoken with the same speech community (Fishman et al., 1982). On the other hand, bilingual diglossia is a situation where one language variety is used in writing while another one is used in speech. Today, diglossia is one of the most important elements in the study of societal multilingualism. Based on Ferguson’s argument, diglossia can be described as a special kind of bilingualism where two co-existing linguistic codes that have different status in the society compete. Use of these language varieties relies on the circumstance (Crystal, 2010). Each the language variety must have a clearly defined role. For example, standard language mainly in formal contexts while a specific dialectal form is used in low functions such as family and social gatherings. Studies observed that the concept of diglossia can be observed in the case of language use in China. In support of this observation, the author reviewed the concepts diglossia, language maintenance, language shift and reversing language shift in general and in relation to a specific case of Inner Mongolia, China.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Language Variation
- Societal Attitudes Towards Bilingualism and Educational Implications
- Literature Review
- Diglossia
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper aims to examine the concepts of diglossia, language maintenance, language shift, and reversing language shift within the context of contemporary Chinese society. It critically analyzes existing theories and applies them to a case study, ultimately aiming to provide recommendations for mitigating the risks of language shift.
- Diglossia and its manifestation in multilingual societies
- Language maintenance and the role of bilingual communities
- Factors contributing to language shift and its societal implications
- The potential for reversing language shift
- Case study analysis of language dynamics in China
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage by defining key sociolinguistic concepts, including diglossia, bilingualism, and language variation. It establishes the context for the study, focusing on the complexities of multilingualism and the functional distribution of languages within speech communities, particularly highlighting the case of China as an example of a society exhibiting diglossic features. The chapter lays the groundwork for exploring the interplay between these concepts and their impact on language maintenance, shift, and the potential for reversal.
Language Variation: This chapter delves into the concept of language variation, emphasizing the differences in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary that arise within a single language due to various social, geographic, and ethnic factors. It challenges the notion of a single "correct" language variety, highlighting the systematic nature of all dialects and their equal validity. The chapter underscores the political aspects of language standardization, contrasting the societal pressures to conform to standard language norms with the importance of maintaining linguistic diversity and community identity.
Societal Attitudes Towards Bilingualism and Educational Implications: This chapter examines the impact of societal attitudes and educational policies on bilingualism. It discusses the potential for language shift when heritage languages are not adequately supported in educational settings, using the example of Farsi in Iran to illustrate how the promotion of a dominant language can lead to the decline of minority languages. The chapter highlights the disadvantages faced by speakers of minority languages and emphasizes the crucial role of bilingual community members in language maintenance.
Literature Review: Diglossia: This section provides a critical review of existing literature on diglossia, tracing its conceptual development from Ferguson's initial work to subsequent expansions and modifications of the concept. It explores different perspectives on the functional distribution of language varieties in multilingual contexts and lays the groundwork for applying these theoretical frameworks to the case study of China.
Keywords
Diglossia, language maintenance, language shift, reversing language shift, bilingualism, multilingualism, language variation, societal attitudes, educational implications, China, Inner Mongolia, language contact.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the overall focus of this language preview?
This preview offers a comprehensive overview of a paper examining diglossia, language maintenance, language shift, and reversing language shift within the context of contemporary Chinese society. It analyzes existing theories, applies them to a case study of China, and provides recommendations for mitigating language shift risks.
What topics are covered in the Table of Contents?
The Table of Contents includes an Introduction, a section on Language Variation, a chapter on Societal Attitudes Towards Bilingualism and Educational Implications, and a Literature Review focusing specifically on Diglossia.
What are the main objectives and key themes explored?
The paper aims to examine diglossia, language maintenance, language shift, and reversing language shift in China. Key themes include diglossia's manifestation in multilingual societies, the role of bilingual communities in language maintenance, factors contributing to language shift, the potential for reversing language shift, and a case study analysis of language dynamics in China.
What are the key takeaways from each chapter?
The Introduction defines key sociolinguistic concepts and sets the context. The Language Variation chapter explores variations within a language and challenges the notion of a single "correct" form. The chapter on Societal Attitudes Towards Bilingualism and Educational Implications examines the impact of societal attitudes and educational policies on bilingualism and language shift, using the example of Farsi in Iran. Finally, the Literature Review critically reviews existing literature on diglossia.
What keywords are associated with this paper?
Keywords include Diglossia, language maintenance, language shift, reversing language shift, bilingualism, multilingualism, language variation, societal attitudes, educational implications, China, Inner Mongolia, and language contact.
What is the significance of the case study of China?
The case study of China serves as a practical application of the theoretical frameworks discussed, allowing for a real-world analysis of language dynamics in a complex multilingual society.
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This preview is intended for an academic audience interested in sociolinguistics, language policy, and the dynamics of multilingual societies, particularly those focused on China.
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- Quote paper
- Difrine Madara (Author), 2019, Diglossia, language maintenance, language shift and reversing language shift: A case example of China, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/961649
