Abstract
The Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 offers the most powerful paradigm for linguistic divisions as they harden into language barriers and become markers of human alienation and mutual incomprehension. This essay discusses medieval examples of these barriers, both literary and historical, from a variety of sources including Chaucer. It focuses on several topics: issues of translation, including biblical translation; the perceived contrast between supposedly fixed languages such as Latin and ever-changing vernaculars; and vernacular languages, especially French and English, in their relations to one another.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
