“Italian in Italy, Italian in Europe” was an event at the Pionta campus, University of Siena, on September 26, 2024, commemorating the European Day of Languages. Hosted by Paolo D’Achille, President of the Accademia della Crusca, the discussions focused on the Italian language’s status in multilingual contexts, the importance of dialects, and the need for careful language usage in light of English influence.
On September 26, 2024, the Pionta campus in Arezzo, part of the University of Siena, hosted the event titled “Italian in Italy, Italian in Europe” to commemorate the European Day of Languages. The event commenced with an address by Paolo D’Achille, the President of the Accademia della Crusca, who focused on the status of the Italian language within the context of national and international multilingualism. D’Achille highlighted the significance of the Italian language, stating that it deserves greater attention than it typically receives. He articulated, “The Italian language is a language that requires greater attention than is usually given to it because, on one hand, being a language spoken by a majority of the population, it is assumed that everyone possesses it; yet, on the other hand, it has a long tradition that has evolved since its inception.” D’Achille emphasized the need to strengthen the connection between the traditional language, which has contributed to Italian’s international prestige, and the contemporary language, urging recognition of the natural changes that every living language undergoes. He also cautioned against certain deteriorations stemming from a lack of care in written usage and an excessive influence from English. Furthermore, D’Achille discussed the historical importance of dialects, stating, “They have held great significance because, before a national language existed, dialects represented a normal form of communication. They are indeed sister languages of Italian, as they also derive from Latin.” He acknowledged the ascendancy of Florentine Tuscan in literature, treatises, and science, which eventually became the standard language. However, he noted that dialects continued to thrive, with some achieving considerable literary traction and, following Italy’s unification, enriching the Italian language by introducing regional cultures into the national narrative.
The event “Italian in Italy, Italian in Europe” reflects a growing recognition of the importance of linguistic diversity and the role of the Italian language in both national and European contexts. As part of the European Day of Languages, this gathering served to highlight the need to preserve and promote the Italian language amid the global prevalence of English and other languages. Paolo D’Achille’s address underscores the challenges faced by the Italian language, including its perceived ubiquity and the consequent neglect in careful usage. By discussing dialects and their historical value, the event aimed to foster a deeper understanding of Italy’s linguistic heritage and its relevance to modern identity.
In conclusion, the event at the Pionta campus successfully underscored the significance of the Italian language in the contemporary multilingual landscape. Paolo D’Achille’s insights reflect a critical need for heightened awareness and care in the usage of the Italian language, as well as an appreciation for the historical and cultural contributions of Italian dialects. The discussions around the evolving nature of language amidst external influences, particularly from English, are vital for preserving the richness of Italy’s linguistic identity.
Original Source: www.lanazione.it
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