Language Conflict in Algeria

From Colonialism to Post-Independence

By (author) Prof. Mohamed Benrabah

Publication date:

16 May 2013

Publisher

Multilingual Matters

Dimensions:

210x148mm
6x8"

ISBN-13: 9781847699640

This is a book about the use of languages as a proxy for conflict. It traces the history of Algeria from colonization by the French in 1830 to the celebration of 50 years of independence in 2012, and examines the linguistic issues that have accompanied this turbulent period. The book begins with an examination of 'language conflict' and related concepts, and then applies them to both the French colonists' language policies and the Arabization campaigns which followed independence. This is followed by an analysis of the rivalry between the English and French languages in independent Algeria. The book concludes with a study of the language choices made by Algerian writers and the complex tensions which arose from these choices among intellectuals in the colonial and post-colonial periods.

Prologue: Two Cultural Wars in 50 Years

Chapter 1: Circumnavigating a Term: 'Language Conflict' and Related Concepts

Chapter 2: Frenchification: Annihilating Indigenous Languages

Chapter 3: Arabization: At War with Diversity

Chapter 4: Geopolitics and Language Rivalry: French versus English

Chapter 5: Writers and Language as a Battlefield: 'Authenticity' versus 'Hybridity'

Epilogue: The Language Question as a 'Lightning Rod'

Benrabah presents a compelling and meticulously documented analysis which illustrates that language conflict in Algeria has always been a proxy for political conflict, brought about through authoritarian, anti-democratic, 'top-down' language planning that has ignored popular sentiments. True democracy will only be possible in Algeria once language policy is developed through a 'bottom-up' process which embraces the country's diverse ethnic and language groups. A fascinating and enlightening look at issues of global relevance.