My Journey with Armenian: A Comprehensive Guide for Language Lovers
My Journey with Armenian: A Comprehensive Guide for Language Lovers
Learning Armenian may seem like a daunting task, but with the right resources and dedication, it can be a rewarding journey. Many language enthusiasts approach Armenian from different backgrounds and with varying methods. In my case, learning Armenian was deeply rooted in my cultural heritage and personal experiences.
Introduction to Armenian
Armenian is a language that holds a special place in my life, as it is my first language. Being of Armenian heritage, my parents were the first to teach me the language, followed by formal lessons from an Armenian dentist in San Jose, California. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to engage in dialogue with my mother-in-law, wife, and multiple visits to Yerevan while working for the American University of Armenia.
Learning Resources and Methods
Attending Armenian classes in a special Armenian school was a significant part of my language acquisition process. My basic language foundation was in Russian, which contributed to my ability to learn Armenian through Gharibyan’s textbook in Russian. This helped me address grammatical issues and build a solid vocabulary.
Enriching my Armenian lexicon involved reading different types of literature. Initially, I started with joke books, tales, and short newspaper articles. Gradually, I moved on to short novels by Vakhtang Ananian and later to large historical novels by Muratsan and Raffi. These works provided a rich and varied understanding of the language.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the most challenging aspects of learning Armenian was mastering the grammar and case agreement. The complexity of Armenian grammar, particularly the case agreements, was a significant hurdle, especially for those coming from English or other non-Indo-European language backgrounds. However, my experience with Russian, another Indo-European language, helped me unconsciously understand many grammatical issues.
Another challenge was acquiring an extensive vocabulary. Armenian has its own terms for nearly all concepts, including modern and international ones such as "computer" and "telephone." Furthermore, the language has developed a vast number of synonyms, which can make understanding an ordinary newspaper article quite challenging without a substantial vocabulary.
Online Resources for Armenian Learners
For those new to Armenian or looking for additional resources, there are several online options available. Мир Книг offers a range of books, including famous works translated into Armenian. For beginners, there is a specialized site that provides vocabulary resources to help you get started. Additionally, Learn Armenian : Essentials offers two volumes of books that teach Armenian from A to Z.
Conclusion
Learning Armenian is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and the right resources. Whether you are a member of the Armenian community or simply interested in the language, there are numerous ways to start your journey. Explore the resources available online, engage in dialogue with native speakers, and immerse yourself in the language whenever possible. With effort and time, you too can master the Armenian language.