The Myth of High and Low German: A Geographic Perspective
Understanding the distinction between High German and Low German often involves more than just language contexts; it delves deep into historical and geographical roots. Contrary to popular belief, these terms are not indicators of social status but rather geographic and linguistic indicators reflecting the regional characteristics of different Germanic dialects.
Origins and Misconceptions
One of the most common misconceptions is that High German was spoken by the nobility and Low German by the peasants. However, this idea is based on misguided interpretations of language terms. The labels 'High' and 'Low' German are indeed very literal. The term 'Low' German (Plattdeutsch) refers to dialects spoken in regions around sea level, while 'High' German (Hochdeutsch) is used for dialects spoken in mountainous areas.
Old examples of High German typically found in monastic manuscripts, such as those written in Hiberno-Latin by Irish monks, are often mislabeled. Hiberno-Latin is a form of Latin used by Irish monks, and these manuscripts are not actual examples of Old High German. There are no documented examples of Old Low German, making the assertion about Low German being the language of peasants baseless.
Geographical Delimitation
The geographic distinction between High and Low German is clear and can be seen in the continent of Central Europe. There is a geographical dividing line running roughly through central Germany, drawing a clear boundary between Plattdeutsch/Low German in the north and Hochdeutsch/High German in the south. The north, generally known for its flatter terrain, speaks Plattdeutsch, while the south, characterized by its mountainous landscapes, speaks High German. This natural division explains why High German is referred to as 'high.'
It’s important to note that this division is a generalization and does not account for the full complexity of German dialects. There is a continuum of dialects across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, but these can be broadly categorized along this geographic line. Understanding these distinctions can enhance the learning experience for those interested in the nuances of the German language.
A Personal Anecdote
Learning German, one typically studies Hochdeutsch (standard German) as standardized by the Duden dictionary. This standardized form is widely used in media and education and is universally understood. However, the real dialects can vary significantly. For example, my German ex-boyfriend, from the far southwestern part of Germany, significantly deviated from standard German when speaking to his family. He spoke their local dialect, which is known as Schwabisch. This dialect required three days for me to fully grasp, as he would often tell them to speak in Hochdeutsch and slowly for my benefit.
Certainly, Dutch is closely related to Low German, and English has roots in Old Low German, as the Angles and Saxons, known for their contribution to English, came from northern regions of Europe, bringing their dialects with them.
Historical Context
In historical contexts, such as in old Livonia, Low German was indeed the language of the gentry and nobility. By the 18th century, however, a transition to High German as the standard language for the nobility occurred. This transition was further localized, leading to various regional dialects based on High German.
When discussing High and Low German, it's paramount to separate the geographical and linguistic factors from social class implications. The terms 'High' and 'Low' are geographic identifiers, reflecting the elevated or low altitude at which these dialects are spoken. Today, understanding these distinctions helps in appreciating the rich tapestry of Germanic languages and promotes a more accurate and comprehensive view of the region's linguistic heritage.