Italian as a national spoken language is a new experience for Italians; until very recently it was normal for the majority of the people to speak in a dialect, and Italian was a literary language used only by a minority. The first section of this book provides an outline of the language, and a sketch of the dialects. The authors also describe the formation of the modern standard language in its varieties (regional, social, and occupational). Part two is a reference grammar of contemporary educated Italian, presented in the way it is actually used, rather than according to traditional prescription. The book concentrates on contemporary usage and will enable the reader to understand and use appropriately a wide range of expressions, characterized where necessary according to their level of formality or their regional nature. The illuminating combination of historical perspective and contemporary grammer make this a unique contribution to Italian linguistics, and an invaluable reference book for all students and scholars in the field of Italian. The second edition has been revised throughout to bring it completely up to date.

About the Author
Giulio Lepschy was born in Venice and studied in universities all over Europe. He is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Reading, and has traveled to North America as a visiting professor. His wife Anna Laura Lepschy has recently retired from her position as a professor at University College, London, and now travels with him as a visiting professor.

Reviews
Possibly the best concise account now available in any language. * Times Literary Supplement *
A stimulating and scholarly introduction to Italian for the serious student. * Times Higher Education *
A major new contribution to the literature in English.... [The Italian Language Today] will be an essential part of the linguistics formation of every Italianist. * The Year's Work in Modern Language Studies *



Book Information
ISBN 9780941533225
Author Anna Laura Lepschy
Format Paperback
Page Count 272
Imprint New Amsterdam Books
Publisher New Amsterdam Books
Weight(grams) 354g
Dimensions(mm) 217mm * 139mm * 20mm