African Languages: An Introduction

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.

• The only available introduction in English giving a complete overview of African linguistics • Covers typology, language structures and sociolinguistic issues • Written by leading experts, who not only provide explanation of basic concepts for beginning students, but also allow them to learn of more recent developments in the 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.