Words in Space and Time: A Historical Atlas of Language Politics in Modern Central Europe

This atlas provides unique insights into the history and mechanics of Central Europes languages, combining linguistics, history, and cartography. It focuses on the dialect continua, emergence of states, and spread of writing technology, and aims to help users perceive languages as products of human history and culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Central European University Press

This atlas provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical development and political implications of Central European languages, featuring forty-two extensively annotated maps. Through a unique blend of linguistics, history, and cartography, it offers a wealth of insights into the complex processes that have shaped these languages. Whether you are a specialist or a general reader, this atlas makes valuable knowledge accessible, covering a wide range of topics such as languages, dialects, alphabets, religions, mass violence, and migrations over extended periods.

The story begins by delving into the dialect continua of Central Europe, the emergence of states, and the spread of writing technology from the tenth century onward. Most of the maps in the atlas focus on the last two centuries. The central narrative revolves around the emergence of the Western European concept of the nation, which led to the foundation of ethnolinguistic nation-states like Italy and Germany. In Central Europe, a "proper" nation is seen as the speech community of a single language.

The atlas aims to empower users to perceive languages as products of human history and cultural artifacts. It encourages a shift in perspective, recognizing that languages, like states, nations, universities, towns, associations, art, beauty, religions, injustice, or atheism, are inventions and manifestations of human creativity and collective efforts. By examining the maps and accompanying annotations, readers gain a deeper understanding of the historical forces that have influenced the development and deployment of Central European languages for political purposes.

This atlas is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in exploring the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Central Europe. Its innovative approach and comprehensive coverage make it an essential tool for understanding the complex dynamics of language and society in this region.

Weight: 1860g
Dimension: 346 x 257 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789633864173
Edition number: Annotated ed