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The Wiradyuri and Other Languages of New South Wales   By: (1841-1918)

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The Wiradyuri and Other Languages of New South Wales by R.H. Mathews is a comprehensive exploration of the Indigenous languages spoken in the region of New South Wales, Australia. As an ethnologist and linguist, Mathews dedicated years of research to document and preserve the diverse linguistic heritage of the Wiradyuri people and other Aboriginal communities.

One of the standout features of this book is Mathews' meticulous attention to detail. Through extensive fieldwork, he collected and compiled an impressive array of vocabulary, grammar, and linguistic patterns of various languages spoken by different Aboriginal groups. His commitment to accuracy and his passion for preserving cultural identity shine through in his work.

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on a specific language or dialect. Mathews begins by providing a historical overview of the region and its indigenous peoples, providing vital context for better understanding their language and its intricacies. He then delves into the grammar and vocabulary of each language, providing readers with a systematic understanding of their structure and unique characteristics.

What sets this book apart from other linguistic texts is Mathews’ ability to convey the nuances and complexities of different languages while ensuring the information is accessible to a wider audience. By incorporating numerous examples, charts, and tables, he presents the material in a clear and organized manner, making it easier for readers to engage with and comprehend the linguistic concepts.

In addition to exploring the linguistic aspects, Mathews also delves into the cultural significance and storytelling traditions of the Wiradyuri people and other communities. By incorporating narratives, myths, and oral histories, he breathes life into the words on the page, immersing readers in the rich heritage and worldview of these Indigenous cultures.

While this book is a valuable resource for linguists, scholars, and anyone interested in Indigenous languages, it should be noted that it requires a certain level of dedication and focus. The depth of information can be overwhelming at times, particularly for those unfamiliar with linguistic terminology. However, Mathews' writing style, which is both scholarly and accessible, helps to offset this potential challenge.

The Wiradyuri and Other Languages of New South Wales is a landmark publication in the field of Australian linguistics. Mathews' meticulous research, commitment to cultural preservation, and his ability to convey the beauty and complexity of Indigenous languages make it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to learn and appreciate the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Wiradyuri people and other Aboriginal communities in New South Wales.

First Page:

THE WIRADYURI AND OTHER LANGUAGES OF NEW SOUTH WALES.

By R. H. Mathews, L.S., Corres. Memb. Anthrop. Soc., Washington, U.S.A.

Synposis. Introductory. Orthography. The Wiradyuri Language. The Burreba burreba Language. The Ngunawal Language. Vocabulary of Wiradyuri Words. Vocabulary of Ngunawal Words.

The native tribes speaking the Wiradyuri language occupy an immense region in the central and southern portions of New South Wales. For their eastern and northern boundaries the reader is referred to the map accompanying my paper to the American Philosophical Society in 1898.[1] The western boundary is shown on the map with my article to the Royal Society of New South Wales the same year.[2] Their southern limit is represented on the map attached to a paper I transmitted to the Anthropological Society at Washington in 1898.[3] The maps referred to were prepared primarily to mark out the boundaries of the social organisation and system of marriage and descent prevailing in the Wiradyuri community, but will also serve to indicate the geographic range of their language.

The Wiradyuri language is spoken over a greater extent of territory than any other tongue in New South Wales, and the object of the present monograph is to furnish a short outline of its grammatical structure. I have included a brief notice of the Burreba burreba language, which adjoins the Wiradyuri on the west... Continue reading book >>




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