The Invention of Europe through languages and cultures

The Language of Europe? – Barbara Cassin

One of the most fruitful challenges posed by Europe is that of languages: we can choose a dominant language—the “Globish” of a globalized Anglo-American world—or strive to preserve plurality by highlighting the meaning and value of differences. “The language of Europe is translation”: this phrase, uttered by Umberto Eco in two of his lectures, favors the second solution. It brings into play not only what a language is and what Europe is, but also the relationship between language and politics.

The Invention of Europe through languages and cultures Annual Chair was created in partnership with the Ministry of Culture (General Delegation for the French Language and the Languages of France).