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The role of the speaker in language obsolescence: the case of Breton in Plougastel-Daoulas, Brittany1

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 June 2009

Mari C. Jones
Mari C. Jones*
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
*
Peterhouse, Cambridge CB2 1RD
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Abstract

This paper examines the phenomenon of language obsolescence by focusing on a large sample of Breton-speakers and non-Breton-speakers within the commune of Plougastel-Daoulas, Finistere. As well as considering matters such as the ability to understand Breton, the opportunities to speak it and so forth, the study also investigates linguistic preference, inter-generational transmission and attitudes towards language planning in an attempt to determine the extent to which the speakers themselves may be considered as catalysts in the process of language death.

Type
Articles
Information
Journal of French Language Studies , Volume 6 , Issue 1 , March 1996 , pp. 45 - 73
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1996

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Footnotes

1

I would like to thank both Cambridge University General Board and the University's French Department for grants which made it possible for me to complete the extensive fieldwork necessary for this study.

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