Reterritorializing Linguistic Landscapes : Questioning Boundaries and Opening Spaces

A historically, spatially and methodologically rich sub-field of sociolinguistics, Linguistic Landscapes (LL) is a rapidly evolving area of research and study. With contributions by an international team of experts from the USA, Europe, the UK, South Africa, Israel, Hong Kong and Colombia, this volume is a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary account of the most recent theoretical and empirical developments in this area. It covers both the conceptual tools and methodologies used to define and question, and case studies of real-world phenomena to showcase Linguistic Landscapes methods in action.

Divided into four parts, chapters bring into dialogue themes relating to reterritorialization practices and the productive nature of boundaries and spaces. This book considers the contemporary challenges facing the field, the politics and processes of identifying and demarcating 'sites of research', and the ethics and pedagogical applications of LL research.

With comprehensive lists of further reading, extended discussion questions and suggestions for independent research at the end of each chapter, this is an essential reference work for all LL scholars and students who wish to keep abreast of the current state of the art.

“This volume succeeds in combining in-depth case studies of linguistic landscape phenomena with detailed engagement with current theoretical models. The essay questions and ideas for projects at the end of each chapter will be invaluable for instructors of courses incorporating linguistic landscape material.” —Amy Dahlstrom, Associate Professor of Linguistics, University of Chicago, USA

“Reterritorializing Linguistic Landscapes is a provocative collection that holds up a mirror to the field itself. It shines a light on theoretical and methodological challenges with contributions that represent the leading edge of innovation and creativity. In this book, we see linguistic landscape analysis maturing.” —Francis M. Hult, Professor, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA

“This is an excellent way to approach the study of the linguistic landscape. The volume presents a vivid picture of the theoretical and methodological debates within the field and is truly interdisciplinary, with insightful contributions that reterritorialize linguistic landscapes. With a wide range of contexts, it is essential reading for researchers and professionals who are interested in languages and multimodality in the public space.” —Jasone Cenoz, Professor of Education, University of the Basque Country, Spain