The English Gipsies and their Language

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The English Gipsies and their Language

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Charles G. Leland's 1873 study offers a firsthand, sympathetic look at English Romani life, documenting Anglo-Romani language, folklore, and customs. Leland argues against the notion that Gipsy speech is merely slang, tracing its roots to Hindustani and preserving a rapidly vanishing culture through original interviews and anecdotes.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The English Gipsies and their Language,' Charles G. Leland presents an original linguistic and anthropological record of the Romani people in England, distinguishing his work from the writings of George Borrow and Walter Simson. Leland asserts that English Romani is a distinct language with a grammar and vocabulary derived primarily from Hindustani, rather than a mere jargon of English cant. He meticulously traces etymological links between Romani words and their Indian origins, such as 'shaster' for Scripture, 'slang' for theatrical acting, and 'shummy' for a tent cloth. The text includes a preface detailing Leland's respectful interactions with the Romani community, noting their politeness and honesty when treated with dignity. Leland emphasizes that he gathered all material directly from Romani individuals, avoiding repetition of other writers, and highlights the community's natural politeness and gratitude when approached without patronage. The book features a substantial vocabulary section and a series of 'Gudli' or short stories and fables. These narratives, ranging from the tale of a man who kills a snake only to be killed by his own knife to stories of trickery involving smugglers and bulls, illustrate Romani character, morality, and humor. Leland also explores the Indian origin of the Romani people, citing linguistic evidence and shared customs like mourning practices, such as friends preparing food for a bereaved family for three days. Throughout, he emphasizes the urgency of preserving this culture before it disappears, offering a linguistic and anthropological record that validates the Romani experience against contemporary prejudices. Leland notes that while the grammar of the language has largely disappeared, the vocabulary remains almost entirely Indian, proving the Romani are not merely speakers of cant but custodians of a unique, rapidly vanishing heritage.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Folklore
• History