ABSTRACT

The disciplines of Geography and Linguistics evidently combine in the mapping of the present whereabouts of different languages and dialects. The next step is to consider how these patterns of distribution came to be. In this context, the study of place-names is of first concern. Other circumstances which must be taken into account are: the adaptation of speech to cultural changes; the adjustment of languages to political frontiers; and the genesis of Pidgins and Creoles under special conditions. On a more idealistic plane we must mention the several attempts over the last four centuries to construct a universal language. Finally, it seems appropriate to say something of the origin, evolution and spread of the related art of writing.