Proseminar Linguistics 1, WS 2012/13, Nora Dorn
Esperanto’s beneficial linguistic factors
29.01.2013
Christine Schäffer Matrikelnummer: 1100389 Studienkennzahl: 190 344 333
Table of contents
1. Introduction........................................................................ 1 2. Defining relevant terminology ........................................... 1 3. Categories of planned languages ........................................ 2 3.1 A priori languages ......................................................... 3 3.2 A posteriori languages................................................... 3 4. Esperanto’s linguistic form and historical development .... 5 5. Esperanto’s beneficial linguistic factors............................. 8 6. Conclusion ....................................................................... 10 7. References........................................................................ 11
1. Introduction
This paper aims to explore which linguistic factors have positively influenced Esperanto to emerge among the other planned languages as the most likely candidate to be used as an international auxiliary language. Before doing so, the relevant terminology shall be dealt with, followed by a definition of the different types of planned languages and a categorization of Esperanto itself. Subsequently, Esperanto’s historical and linguistic development shall be summarized. Lastly, linguistic factors for the language’s success shall be discussed.
2. Defining relevant terminology
As the concept of a ‘planned language’ acquired a multitude of synonyms over time (Blanke 1985: 51-62), a short overview and explanation of relevant terms for this paper shall be given here. The term ‘planned language’ itself has first been used by Wüster (1931) and was recommended by Blanke (1985: 63) as the most fitting and neutral term available. Per definition, a planned language, together with its phonology, morphology and syntax structure, has been consciously...