In 1910, J.R.R. Tolkien began construction of a fictional language of the Elves, which ultimately resulted in the creation of at least fifteen different languages and dialects. Why would someone create their own language? And how would a person begin to even do so? In this course, we will answer both questions directly, addressing the impetus for language invention and the process by which one creates a language. By examining a variety of invented languages (such as Esperanto, Klingon, and Dothraki) and natural languages (such as Spanish, Swahili, and Chinese), we will examine how language works in general and the typical features found within the languages of the world. Throughout the course, students will work on their own languages in stages, concluding with a presentation of their work to the other students at the end of the semester.

In 1910, J.R.R. Tolkien began construction of a fictional language of the Elves, which ultimately resulted in the creation of at least fifteen different languages and dialects. Why would someone create their own language? And how would a person begin to even do so? In this course, we will answer both questions directly, addressing the impetus for language invention and the process by which one creates a language. By examining a variety of invented languages (such as Esperanto, Klingon, and Dothraki) and natural languages (such as Spanish, Swahili, and Chinese), we will examine how language works in general and the typical features found within the languages of the world. Throughout the course, students will work on their own languages in stages, concluding with a presentation of their work to the other students at the end of the semester.