African Languages An Introduction

This book is the first general introduction to African languages and linguistics to be published in English. It covers the four major language groupings (Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, Afroasiatic and Khoisan), the core areas of modern theoretical linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax), typology, sociolinguistics, comparative linguistics, and language, history and society. Basic concepts and terminology are explained for undergraduates and nonspecialist readers, but each chapter also provides an overview of the state of the art in its field, and as such will be referred to by more advanced students and general linguists.

This book is an introduction to African languages and linguistics, covering typology, structure and sociolinguistics. The twelve chapters are written by a team of fifteen eminent Africanists, and their topics include the four major language groupings (Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, Afroasiatic and Khoisan), the core areas of modern theoretical linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax), typology, sociolinguistics, comparative linguistics, and language, history and society. Basic concepts and terminology are explained for undergraduates and non-specialist readers, but each chapter also provides an overview of the state of the art in its field, and as such will be referred to also by more advanced students and general linguists. The book brings this range of material together in accessible form for anyone wishing to learn more about this challenging and fascinating field.

List of maps; Notes on contributors; 1. Introduction Bernd Heine and Derek Nurse; 2. Niger-Congo Kay Williamson and Roger Blench; 3. Nilo-Saharan Lionel M. Bender; 4. Afroasiatic Richard J. Hayward; 5. Khoisan Tom Güldemann and Rainer Vossen; 6. Phonology G. N. Clements; 7. Morphology Gerrit J. Dimmendaal; 8. Syntax John R. Watters; 9. Typology Denis Creissels; 10. Comparative linguistics Paul Newman; 11. Language and history Christopher Ehret; 12. Language and society H. Ekkehard Wolff; References; Index of authors; Index of languages; Index of subjects.

This book is an introduction to African languages and linguistics, covering typology, structure and sociolinguistics. It covers language typology, linguistic structures and sociolinguistic issues. Basic concepts are explained for undergraduates and non-specialists, but each chapter also provides an overview of the state of the art in its field.