LIN 201—Creoles, Pidgins and Mixed Languages and Cultures

In this course, we explore the unique socio-historical contexts of the emergence of historically new languages commonly referred to as creoles, pidgins and mixed languages. We examine their geographical distribution, the particular (socio-)historical events in which they arise and how they relate to the languages that participate in their formation. Along with the historical aspect, we examine the cultural and population mix that also emerges in these contexts, language use in various areas of society (education, administration, rituals, everyday life, entertainment, etc.) and the social structure reflected by their usage. Finally, we explore language attitudes and policies which directly correlate with the history of these languages. Creoles, Pidgins and mixed languages from all over the world will be considered in this course, with a particular emphasis on those that developed in within territories that are now part of the United States such as Hawaiian Pidgin, Gullah-Geechee, Louisiana Creole, and Michif as well as those that developed elsewhere but are now spoken by contemporary communities in the United States such as Haitian Creole and Cape Verdean Creole. This course is the same as RLL 201 and course repeat rules will apply. Students should consult with their major department regarding any restrictions on their degree requirements.