The demonstrative copulative or can that lady cook: African languages, authoritarianism and servility

This paper discusses some African language materials including books for learners, phrase books as well as grammars and dictionaries. The metalanguage created to explain African languages both to learners and scholars alike is very briefly analysed. Furthermore, it is shown that some of the materials contain more than a modicum of references to conditions of subalternity and servility imposed on speakers of African languages in the past. It is suggested that historically the creation of a field of African language studies and linguistics is ultimately linked to complex local social histories that then find a more than superficial reflection in the language materials themselves. Moreover, it is shown that these materials are often reprinted without significant changes in the post-apartheid era, which perhaps indicates a great resilience in perceptions and practices related to African languages.