Neapolitan language

File:WIKITONGUES- Foffo speaking Neapolitan.webm

Maria Flora nella canzone %27O pisciavinolo - 1895

Giambattista Basile

Carnevale Scampia 01

Viola Carofalo

Neapolitan language is a Romance language spoken primarily in the Southern Italian region of Campania, and in parts of Lazio, Apulia, Basilicata, Abruzzo, and Molise. Neapolitan is part of the Italo-Dalmatian group of languages, which also includes Sicilian, Corsican, and the extinct Dalmatian language. It has a rich literary tradition and history, dating back to the Middle Ages, and it has been an influential dialect in the development of Italian literature and music, particularly in the genres of opera and song.

History

The Neapolitan language developed from Vulgar Latin, with influences from the pre-Roman languages of the region, such as Oscan and Greek. The first documented Neapolitan texts date back to the 12th century, but it was during the Renaissance that Neapolitan literature began to flourish. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Neapolitan became the language of the theatre in Southern Italy, with playwrights like Giambattista Basile and Eduardo De Filippo contributing significantly to its literary canon.

Dialects

Neapolitan is not a uniform language; it comprises various dialects that can vary significantly from one town to another. These dialects can be broadly categorized into northern, central, and southern groups, with the Neapolitan spoken in the city of Naples often considered the standard form. Despite these variations, speakers of different dialects can generally understand each other.

Phonology and Grammar

Neapolitan phonology is characterized by the presence of seven vowels and a variety of consonant sounds, which can differ from standard Italian. Its grammar shares many features with other Romance languages, such as the use of gender (masculine and feminine) and number (singular and plural) for nouns and adjectives, and a similar verb conjugation system. However, Neapolitan also has its own unique aspects, including specific verb forms and pronouns.

Status and Preservation

Although Neapolitan is widely spoken in its native regions, it does not have official status in Italy, where Italian is the sole official language. Efforts have been made to preserve and promote Neapolitan, including teaching it in some schools and broadcasting radio and television programs in the language. In 2008, Neapolitan was recognized by the Italian Republic as a "language" under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, which has helped in its preservation and promotion efforts.

Cultural Impact

Neapolitan has had a significant impact on Italian culture, especially in music and cinema. The Neapolitan song, a genre that emerged in the 19th century, has become famous worldwide, with classics such as O Sole Mio and Funiculì, Funiculà. Neapolitan cinema has also gained international recognition, with films and actors from the region receiving critical acclaim.

Conclusion

The Neapolitan language is a vital part of Italy's cultural heritage, reflecting the history and identity of its speakers. Despite challenges in its preservation, Neapolitan continues to be a living language, celebrated in literature, music, and the arts.