Australia's Original Languages

Name: Australia's Original Languages
Brand: Allen & Unwin
SKU: 9781760875237
Price: 36.99 NZD
Availability: InStock

An introduction

By R. M. W. Dixon

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Summary

Australia's Original Languages by R. M. W. Dixon provides an in-depth exploration of the rich linguistic diversity and history of Indigenous Australian languages. The book delves into the development and structure of these languages, offering insights into their cultural significance and the ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalise them. It highlights the unique features of these languages while discussing the broader implications for language preservation globally.
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Format: Paperback / softback

$36⁹⁹

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Australia's Original Languages

$36⁹⁹

Australia's Original Languages

An introduction to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait languages that explains their distinctive features accessibly for readers who have no previous experience with learning another language, and shows how language reflects traditional culture.

Description

'A must read for all who would like to understand the languages and culture of Indigenous Australians.' Dr Ernie Grant, Elder of the Jirrbal nation

When Captain Cook landed at Botany Bay, about 250 distinct languages were spoken across the continent. Yet Australian Indigenous languages actually share many common features.

Bob Dixon has been working with elders to research Australian languages for half a century, and he draws on this deep experience to outline the common features. He provides a straightforward introduction to the sounds, word building, and wide-ranging vocabulary of Indigenous languages, and highlights distinctive grammatical features. He explains how language is related to culture, including kinship relationships, gender systems, and naming conventions.

With examples from over 30 languages and anecdotes illustrating language use, and avoiding technical terms, Australia's Original Languages is the indispensable starting point for anyone interested in learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait languages.

'Written in an accessible, easy to read style, Professor Dixon's new book is an informative and entertaining introduction to Australia's "original" languages.' Dr Joe Blythe, Department of Linguistics, Macquarie University

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Australia's Original Languages by R. M. W. Dixon is praised for engagingly introducing readers to the significance of Australia’s Indigenous languages. Critics commend Dixon for his ability to simplify complex linguistic concepts, making them accessible to non-expert readers, and highlight the book's insight into how language shapes and mirrors society and culture, all conveyed in a light-hearted and often amusing style.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760875237

Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 July 2019

Country: Australia

Imprint: Allen & Unwin

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 358g

Pages: 208

Collections

Education & Reference Non-Fiction R. M. W. Dixon Self-Help & Personal Development

About the Author

R. M. W. Dixon is a Professor of Linguistics at James Cook University and Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities. He has been conducting immersion fieldwork since 1963 and is author of The Languages of Australia, co-author of Australian Aboriginal Words in English, and author of grammars and dictionaries for five Indigenous languages.