The Catalan Language: Identity and Evolution in Late Medieval Catalunya

"The Catalan Language: Identity and Evolution in Late Medieval Catalunya" by Philip Decker explores the rich and complex history of the Catalan language during the late medieval period, examining its evolution from a vernacular dialect to a symbol of political autonomy and cultural identity. Through detailed historical analysis, Decker traces how Catalan developed in the context of the Crown of Aragon, influenced by political events, cultural exchanges, and the dynamic relationships between the Catalan-speaking regions and neighboring powers. The book delves into how Catalan flourished in the courts, in religious and scholarly texts, and in the everyday lives of the common people, despite the gradual pressures of Castilianization. Decker also explores the cultural revival during the Renaixença and the challenges Catalan faces in modern times, offering an insightful examination of the language's role as both a tool of communication and a marker of Catalan identity throughout history.