Linguistic Attitudes among English Varieties in South Africa
Linguistic attitudes among English varieties in South Africa - Do South Africans tolerate English linguistic diversity?
Presented at the Faculty for Anglistic
University of Potsdam
Bachelor thesis
In partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Frauke Ferber
1 Abstract
In the ongoing search for identity, the turbulent history of Johannesburg (and South Africa) resulted in a society that is “torn between the extremes of utopian dreamworld and dystopian nightmare.” (Murray 2008; 2). Murray describes it as a place that is being pulled by the illusive dream of a steady income and pushed by despair and hopelessness where thousands are in search of a better life. Yet, possibilities for socioeconomic advancement are “largely restricted to those with inherited wealth, talents and educational attainment” (Murray 2008; 16). Not only do Murray’s aspects seem to guarantee economic success in South Africa but also the ability to speak English. Webb (2002) states that a South African must be “able to study English for the purpose of international trade and diplomacy, and in order to gain access in the higher levels of scientific and technological activity, as well as world literature and recreation in general.” (Webb 2002; 278).
The purpose of this literature review is to answer the question of South African English stereotypes and the development of its countless varieties as far as tolerance towards its variations is concerned.
My key terms in my search were ‘Tolerance, English speaking South African English, Black South African English, Coloured English, Afrikaans English, South African Indian English, English in Johannesburg, Linguistics and Tolerance in South Africa.’ First, definitions of stereotypes and language attitudes, tolerance and language varieties are described. Further, the historical development of South African English will be outlined. In addition to this, a brief contrast of the varieties will be
Presented at the Faculty for Anglistic
University of Potsdam
Bachelor thesis
In partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Frauke Ferber
1 Abstract
In the ongoing search for identity, the turbulent history of Johannesburg (and South Africa) resulted in a society that is “torn between the extremes of utopian dreamworld and dystopian nightmare.” (Murray 2008; 2). Murray describes it as a place that is being pulled by the illusive dream of a steady income and pushed by despair and hopelessness where thousands are in search of a better life. Yet, possibilities for socioeconomic advancement are “largely restricted to those with inherited wealth, talents and educational attainment” (Murray 2008; 16). Not only do Murray’s aspects seem to guarantee economic success in South Africa but also the ability to speak English. Webb (2002) states that a South African must be “able to study English for the purpose of international trade and diplomacy, and in order to gain access in the higher levels of scientific and technological activity, as well as world literature and recreation in general.” (Webb 2002; 278).
The purpose of this literature review is to answer the question of South African English stereotypes and the development of its countless varieties as far as tolerance towards its variations is concerned.
My key terms in my search were ‘Tolerance, English speaking South African English, Black South African English, Coloured English, Afrikaans English, South African Indian English, English in Johannesburg, Linguistics and Tolerance in South Africa.’ First, definitions of stereotypes and language attitudes, tolerance and language varieties are described. Further, the historical development of South African English will be outlined. In addition to this, a brief contrast of the varieties will be