Studying Ancient Languages – A Reflection of Modern Language Knowledge

Reference & EducationLanguage

  • Author Charlene Lacandazo
  • Published June 25, 2012
  • Word count 428

The world today is full and rich of significant histories that are vital to the existence of traditions and culture of every people in modern society. One of the main gateways for people to be able to access the history that can enrich their values and knowledge is through breaking the barriers between ancient languages and modern languages.

There are often a lot of difficulties involved in translating these ancient languages into more understandable language of today. Ancient languages such as Latin and even Egyptian Hieroglyphic are just examples of the most famous ancient languages; however, today, these are dead languages already, and hence, they are not usually understood by most people.

Due to the massive influence of modern languages on people, modern people stopped studying and learning ancient languages, up to the point where nobody speaks these languages anymore. On the other hand, why should modern people study ancient languages?

Last night, I was watching a documentary on the BBC about lost civilizations, which revealed the wonders of some of the world’s ancient cities. This one in particular was the story of the formidable Hittites, a civilization bent on world domination. Their long-lost capital Hattusha was recently discovered and archaeologists were amazed about the features of Hattusha civilisation, its palace, walls, secret tunnels, and of course its kingdom’s written language.

Archaeologists discovered some unique hieroglyphs, which tells the story of what happened to the people and the city, and what caused an empire built to last forever to just vanish so completely from history. Hattusha’ written language was far different from the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs; due to the big differences between the two ancient languages, archaeologists faced some difficulties in understanding and translating the ancient Hattusha language into a modern language.

The revelation of this long-lost empire is a new vital essential contribution to the history and knowledge of every people. The difficulties that archaeologists and linguists encountered in trying to translate the Hattusha Hieroglyphs are starting to give an idea to people about giving suitable importance to studying ancient languages.

Studying and learning ancient languages may not be a compulsory subject in schools today, however, requiring yourself to learn these languages may become your main asset to be a part of these legal and adventurous teams that are willing to dig and find the truth behind history and mysteries.

Ancient languages remain useful as communication devices between scientists and experts of different mother tongues. Experts that have knowledge in ancient languages can discuss important issues and discoveries that help boost progress and historical knowledge.

Charlene Lacandazo works for Rosetta Translation, a leading London translation agency.

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