Abstract
This chapter addresses the symbolic function of Arabic in the political sphere by focusing on its role as a proxy for political ideologies in the Arabic-speaking world. The chapter is divided into two main parts. The first part highlights the inherently political nature of language standardisation and presents evidence from Egypt to demonstrate how standard language ideology is challenged. The second part focuses on the role of Arabic in identity politics and how it has been deployed – or rejected – in a range of nationalisms in the Arab world with a particular focus on Lebanon and Egypt. This part also addresses the role of language ideologies in inter-state relations through a discussion of the Maghreb-Mashreq language ideology.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
