The Bantu Languages

This second edition of The Bantu Languages provides a comprehensive grammatical analysis of individual Bantu languages, comparative studies of their main phonetic, phonological, and grammatical characteristics, and overview chapters on their history and classification. It is estimated that 300–350 million people, or one in three Africans, are Bantu speakers. The book is divided into two parts: Part 1 contains 11 comparative chapters, and Part 2 provides grammar sketches of 12 individual Bantu languages. It has been thoroughly revised and updated to include more language descriptions and the latest comparative insights. It is an ideal reference for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students of Bantu linguistics and languages, as well as researchers and anyone with an interest in historical linguistics, linguistic typology, and grammatical analysis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 806 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This extensive volume, penned by a team of international experts, offers comprehensive grammatical analyses of individual Bantu languages, comparative studies of their primary phonetic, phonological, and grammatical features, and overview chapters on their history and classification. It is estimated that approximately 300 to 350 million people, or one-third of Africans, speak Bantu languages. Van de Velde and Bostoen, renowned linguistic experts, have collaborated to produce a second edition that builds upon the pioneering work of Nurse and Philippson.

The Bantu Languages, 2nd edition, is structured into two parts. Part 1 comprises 11 comparative chapters, while Part 2 presents grammar sketches of 12 individual Bantu languages, some of which were previously undescribed. The grammar sketches follow a standardized template, facilitating easy comparison.

Thoroughly revised and updated to encompass more detailed language descriptions and the latest comparative insights, this edition introduces several new chapters on syntax, tone, reconstruction, and language contact. Additionally, 12 new sketch grammars have been included, and the chapters on phonetics, aspect-tense-mood, and classification have been thoroughly revised and updated. An extensive catalogue of known languages, accompanied by essential references, is also provided.

This exceptional resource remains the go-to reference for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students of Bantu linguistics and languages. It also holds interest for researchers and individuals with a passion for historical linguistics, linguistic typology, and grammatical analysis.

Weight: 1182g
Dimension: 230 x 154 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032401669
Edition number: 2 ed