Fel Xx Proceedings

Ostler, Nicholas; Mohanty, Panchanan (December 2016). Ostler, Nicholas; Mohanty, Panchanan (eds.). Fel Xx Proceedings. Language Colonization and Endangerment: Long-term Effects, Echoes and Reactions. Hungerford, England: Foundation for Endangered Languages. ISBN 978-0-9560210-8-3.

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Abstract: Includes "Searching for a Surrogate: Mother Tongue(s) and Identity in Post-Colonial Micronesia" by Kathryn M. Hudson

Her paper "considers the repercussions of colonialism as they occur in constructions of linguistic identity by considering the concept of the mother tongue. Although this term often describes an individual’s first linguistic affiliation, the assumed correspondence of language, identity, and cultural affiliation underlying this usage is flawed. It reflects, among other things, the ideals of the nationstate; more problematic, however, is the implication that linguistic and cultural categories are clearly demarcated and unchanging throughout an individual’s lifetime. A more contextualized approach is required, particularly in post-colonial contexts. Taking the author’s work in Micronesia as its inspiration, this paper explores how concepts of the mother tongue can function in post-colonial states. Particular attention is given to the experiences of a consultant from the Ulithi atoll of Yap. Her mother tongue, traditionally defined, is Ulithian, but long-term stays elsewhere in Micronesia prompted the self-identification of two additional mother tongues both related in some way to Ulithian – and a corresponding triality in her perceptions of her own identity that was readily accepted by individuals within her adopted communities. This pattern of contextually variable identity represents a practice that is described here as language coalescence; its definition and features are considered in detail."

Extra details:

OCLC: 969880540