Dia dhuit, (Hello)
One of the classes I am taking is Introduction to Modern Irish, where I will learn to speak some Irish (a form of Gaelic). The first class was quite intimidating, but I suppose it is always scary to learn a new language. I'm used to the Romantic languages, and this is a Celtic language. Before coming here, I didn't realize that Irish is the official language of Ireland. All government documents are written in Irish and all signs must have the Irish and English names. All children are taught Irish in school (and must pass a proficiency test to advance to university). The history of the language is remarkable, but I won't be boring with all of that. But as my professor put it today, "A country without a language is a country with a soul." By venturing to learn this language, I hope to be immersed into the Irish culture and feel some of that Irish pride.
Slan! (Goodbye)
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In County Mayo Gaelic is the first language although English is also taught. Even the street signs are posted in Gaelic and English. I don't know about the other counties.
ReplyDeleteMy great grandfather, who was from County Mayo, was fluent in Gaelic.
Wish I could audit that class! Then I could give my friend, Eileen, a 'run of it'!
ReplyDeleteoooo i cant wait to learn!!
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