Creating Canadian English: The Professor, the Mountaineer, and a National Variety of English

This book explores the development of Canadian English from the 20th century to the present, highlighting the contributions of linguists who shaped the variety. It is an archive-based biography that provides a new voice to earlier generations of Canadian linguists and explores topics such as linguistic description, codification, dictionary making, linguistic imperialism, language and Canadian identity, and the threat of Americanization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This captivating account delves into the intricate tapestry of Canadian English, tracing its conceptual, social, and linguistic evolution from the twentieth century to the present. Far from a mere chronicle of Canadian English, this book unfolds as a captivating narrative that encompasses the discovery, codification, and eventual acceptance of this unique variety, as well as the invaluable contributions of the linguists who have shaped it. Authored by an accomplished research linguist with a deep expertise in Canadian English, this book takes the form of an archive-based biography, offering a fresh perspective on the lives and legacies of earlier generations of Canadian linguists. Through a meticulous blend of new data and re-interpretations of existing studies, a new and vibrant voice is granted to these often overlooked pioneers, who, through their tireless efforts, molded the variety and how we perceive it today.

Spanning nearly a century of developments, this comprehensive account delves into a range of captivating topics. From the intricate processes of linguistic description and codification to the art of dictionary making, the influence of linguistic imperialism, the complex interplay of linguistic attitudes, the profound connection between language and Canadian identity, and the ever-present threat of Americanisation, Dollinger presents a coherent, integrated, and balanced account of the evolution of Canadian English.

Through vivid storytelling and meticulous scholarship, this book offers readers a profound understanding of the rich and complex history of Canadian English. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, language enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the dynamic interplay between language, culture, and society. As we navigate the ever-changing linguistic landscape, this book reminds us of the profound impact that language can have on our lives and the importance of preserving and celebrating the diversity of our linguistic heritage.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 152 x 226 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108708753