The Arabic Language

Versteegh, Kees

ISBN 10: 0748614362 / ISBN 13: 9780748614363

Published by Edinburgh University Press, 2001

About this Item

Summary:This general introduction to the Arabic Language, now available in paperback, places special emphasis on the history and variation of the language. Concentrating on the difference between the two types of Arabic - the Classical standard language and the dialects - Kees Versteegh charts the history and development of the Arabic language from the earliest beginnings to modern times. The reader is offered a solid grounding in the structure of the language, its historical context and its use in various literary and non-literary genres, as well as an understanding of the role of Arabic as a cultural, religious and political world language. Intended as an introductory guide for students of Arabic, it will also be a useful tool for discussions both from a historical linguistic and from a socio-linguistic perspective. -- Back cover.

Seller Inventory # 12BR107

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Arabic Language
• Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0748614362
• ISBN 13: 9780748614363
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: New
• Seller catalogs:
  • Middle East
  • Language
  • Linguistics

About this title

Synopsis

This general introduction to the Arabic Language, now available in paperback, places special emphasis on the history and variation of the language. Concentrating on the difference between the two types of Arabic - the Classical standard language and the dialects - Kees Versteegh charts the history and development of the Arabic language from the earliest beginnings to modern times. The reader is offered a solid grounding in the structure of the language, its historical context and its use in various literary and non-literary genres, as well as an understanding of the role of Arabic as a cultural, religious and political world language. Intended as an introductory guide for students of Arabic, it will also be a useful tool for discussions both from a historical linguistic and from a socio-linguistic perspective. Coverage includes all aspects of the history of Arabic, the Arabic linguistic tradition, Arabic dialects and Arabic as a world language. Links are made between linguistic history and cultural history, while the author emphasises the role of contacts between Arabic and other languages. This important book will be an ideal text for all those wishing to acquire an understanding or develop their knowledge of the Arabic language.

About the Author

Kees Versteegh is professor of Arabic and Islam at the University of Nijmegen.