Edward Sapir’s ‘Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech’ is a seminal work in the field of linguistics, exploring the essential nature of language and its relationship to human thought and culture. With a focus on the structure and function of language, Sapir delves into phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how language shapes our perceptions of the world. Written in a clear and accessible style, the book serves as an introduction to linguistic theory while also offering deeper insights into the complex workings of human communication. Published in 1921, ‘Language’ remains a foundational text in the study of language and continues to influence contemporary linguistic thought. Edward Sapir, a renowned linguist and anthropologist, draws on his expertise in the study of indigenous languages to present a diverse range of examples and case studies, enriching the reader’s understanding of linguistic diversity and complexity. Recommended for both students and scholars interested in the intricacies of language, ‘Language’ is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and inform readers across generations.
Tentang Penulis
Edward Sapir (1884–1939) was a renowned American anthropologist and linguist, distinguished for his substantial contributions to the understanding of language and its relation to culture and society. A key figure in the development of the discipline of linguistics in North America, Sapir’s interdisciplinary approach combined anthropology, linguistics, psychology, and sociology. His seminal work ‘Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech’ (1921) provides a comprehensive overview of the nature of language, its functions, and its crucial role in human experience. Sapir was not bound by traditional linguistic theory, and his pioneering efforts in the field led to the emergence of the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which suggests that language shapes thought and cultural patterns. This hypothesis, though controversial, has sparked considerable debate and research in both linguistics and anthropology. Sapir’s literary style is characterized by clear, precise prose and the ability to explain complex ideas in an accessible manner. His legacy is evident in the fields of ethnolinguistics and cognitive anthropology, and his work continues to be a foundational reference for students and scholars interested in the interplay between language, thought, and culture.