Exploring Celtic Language Pockets in England: Revival Efforts and Unique Counting Systems

While English is the dominant language in England, there are still pockets of communities that speak Celtic languages. These pockets are not just isolated but are part of rich linguistic heritage. This article will explore these Celtic language communities, including Cornish and Cumbric, and discuss the efforts to revive their languages.

English’s Celtic Language Pockets

Celtic languages have had a profound influence on the English language, despite the dominance of English. In fact, many English words have Celtic roots, especially in geographical names and personal names. This influence is particularly noticeable in Wales, Scotland, and Cornwall.

Welsh: A Majestic Revival

Wales leads the way when it comes to reviving Celtic languages. Around 25% of the population can speak Welsh, and many schools in Wales teach exclusively in Welsh. This makes Wales one of the few areas in the world where a Celtic language is being actively revived and adopted. The government has enacted policies that encourage the use of Welsh in official capacities, making it a vibrant and essential part of Welsh culture.

Cornish and the Pockets of Revival

Cornwall, located in the far southwest of England, is another area where Celtic language efforts are making significant strides. While the number of Cornish speakers is small (approximately 300), their language revival efforts are quite impressive. These efforts are inspired by the Welsh language revival but have unique challenges and methods.

The Cornish language is classified as a Brythonic Celtic language, closely related to Breton and Welsh. However, it is not as widely spoken as Welsh, and most Cornish speakers also speak English as their first language. This has led to some Cornish speakers being described as hobbyist Cornish speakers who make a significant effort to revive their ancestral language.

Unique Cornish Language Efforts

One notable aspect of Cornish language efforts is the efforts to teach Cornish in schools and community centers. The Cornish Language Partnership (CLaP) is an organization that works to promote the language. Additionally, Cornish language projects have been underway to encourage the use of Cornish in public and private settings.

Cumbric: The Last Celtic Vestige in England

Another small pocket of Celtic language, particularly in England, is the Cumbric language. Although it is believed to have become extinct by the 12th century, traces of Cumbric can still be found today in the unique counting system used by the shepherds in Cumbria.

Cumbria, located in the northwest of England, is one of the last regions to retain vestiges of Celtic language and culture. Interestingly, modern-day shepherds still use a base-20 counting system, which is a feature found in many ancient Celtic languages. This system, based on the human body, is primarily used for counting ewes and lambs, but its unique structure offers insight into the language that once thrived there.

Cumbric Counting System

Yan: One Tyan: Two Tether: Three Mether: Four Pimp: Five Sethera: Six Lethera: Seven Hovera: Eight Dovera: Nine Dic: Ten Yan a dic: Eleven Tyan a dic: Twelve Tether a dic: Thirteen Mether a dic: Fourteen Bumfit: Fifteen Yan a bumfit: Sixteen Tyan a bumfit: Seventeen Thether a bumfit: Eighteen Mether a bumfit: Nineteen Jiggot: Twenty

Conclusion

While English is the predominant language in England, the influence of Celtic languages is still evident in many areas. Wales, Cornwall, and parts of Cumbria continue to preserve their unique linguistic heritage. Through language revival efforts, these communities are not only preserving their cultural identity but also providing valuable insights into the rich history of the British Isles.

Whether it's the Welsh language in Wales, the Cornish language in Cornwall, or the unique counting system of Cumbric in Cumbria, the remnants of Celtic languages offer a fascinating glimpse into the complex linguistic landscape of England.