Talkin and Testifyin: The Language of Black America (Waynebook) - Softcover

Smitherman, Geneva

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0814318053 ISBN 13: 9780814318058

Publisher: Wayne State University Press, 1986

Synopsis

In her book, Geneva Smitherman makes a substantial contribution to an understanding of Black English by setting it in the larger context of Black culture and life style. In addition to defining Black English, by its distinctive structure and special lexicon, Smitherman argues that the Black dialect is set apart from traditional English by a rhetorical style which reflects its African origins. Smitherman also tackles the issue of Black and White attitudes toward Black English, particularly as they affect educational policy.

Documenting her insights with quotes from notable Black historical, literary and popular figures, Smitherman makes clear that Black English is as legitimate a form of speech as British, American, or Australian English.

About this title

Book Description:

In this book, Smitherman makes a substantial contribution to an understanding of Black English by setting it in the larger context of Black culture and life style.

About the Author:

Geneva Smitherman a distinguished professor emerita and director of the African American Language and Literacy Program at Michigan State University.

About this edition

• Publisher: Wayne State University Press
• Publication date: 1986
• ISBN 10: 0814318053
• ISBN 13: 9780814318058
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 298