Publisher's Synopsis
This geographical atlas constitutes the first systematic presentation of the spatial and quantitative characteristics of the distribution of languages in the countries of South Asia. Combining and comparing language data from various national censuses, this atlas enables readers to actually see the geographical location, extension and linguistic affinities of any of the numerous languages spoken in South Asia.
In the first part, Professor Breton introduces the reader to the general relationship between language and the complex ethnocultural structure of the subcontinent. He stresses both the importance of and difficulties in analyzing the vitality of South Asian language groups, and examines the similarities and differences in language use and various ethnic traits among similar population groups.
The second part - which comprises 60 plates along with supporting text - is devoted to graphically analyzing a large number of aspects including: the regional distribution of language and ethnic communities; the relationship between language and race, tribe, caste and religion; the main linguistic minorities; and ethno-political factors.
