Cornish Language -217

The Cornish language, also known as Kernowek, is a Celtic language spoken primarily in Cornwall, a region in the southwestern part of the United Kingdom. Here are some key points about the Cornish language:
Classification: Cornish is a member of the Brythonic branch of the Celtic language family, which also includes Welsh and Breton. These languages evolved from a common Celtic ancestor.
Revival: Cornish experienced a decline in usage over the centuries, and by the 18th century, it was considered extinct as a community language. However, in the 20th century, efforts were made to revive the language, leading to its gradual resurgence.
Script: Traditional Cornish was written using the Latin script, and this remains the standard writing system. However, there are some variations in spelling conventions.
Dialects: There are several dialects of Cornish, including Unified Cornish (Kernowek Kemmyn), Modern Cornish (Kernowek Nowedga), and Revived Late Cornish (Kernowek Dasunys).
Cultural Significance: The Cornish language is a fundamental aspect of the cultural identity of Cornwall. It is used in literature, poetry, music, and other forms of artistic expression.
Education: Efforts have been made to incorporate Cornish into education. Some schools in Cornwall offer Cornish language classes, and there are resources available for learning the language.
Legal Recognition: In 2002, Cornish was officially recognized as a minority language in the UK under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.
Bilingualism: Many speakers of Cornish are also proficient in English. Bilingualism is common, especially among those actively involved in Cornish language communities.
Preservation Efforts: Various organizations and communities work towards the preservation and promotion of the Cornish language. This includes language courses, cultural events, and initiatives in media and arts.