why is Icelandic considered a separate language and not Old Norwegian?
In: Culture
Same reason Norwegian is considered a separate language for Old Norse (not Old Norwegian). Both evolved over time and are now different from their parent. Due to isolation and a smaller, more homogenous population, Icelandic (and Faroese) has changed less than other Norse languages, but it has still changed.
It shares a root, but is no longer mutually intelligible.
The same is true for French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Romanian. They all splintered off from Latin in the middle ages and are no longer close enough to be considered “dialects” of a single language.
Because the spelling, phonology and grammar have changed quite significantly, even if an icelandic speaker can with a small amount of effort understand old norse.
Also, because it is a language spoken by icelanders in iceland. As the mainland languages started diverging the need to signifiy the uniqueness of Icelandic became more evident.
Latest Answers