Strasbourg

🗣️

Alsatian Dialect

Sections

1. Historical and Cultural Significance of the Alsatian Dialect

What is the Alsatian Dialect?

  • The Alsatian dialect, or "Elsässisch" in the dialect itself, is a variety of Alemannic German spoken in the Alsace region. It is closely related to Swiss German and Swabian German, with some influences from Standard German and French.
  • It is not a single, uniform dialect but rather a collection of local variations that differ slightly from town to town within Alsace.

Historical Context

  • Medieval Period: Alsatian developed as part of the Alemannic branch of the Germanic language family. It was the primary spoken language in the region for centuries.
  • French-German Influence: Alsace has a complex history of shifting between French and German rule. This has deeply influenced the region's language and culture. After the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871), Alsace became part of Germany, and German was the dominant language. After World War I, Alsace returned to France, and French became the official language.
  • 20th Century Suppression: During the 20th century, particularly after World War II, the French government promoted French as the sole language of education and administration, leading to a decline in the use of Alsatian.
  • Cultural Revival: In recent decades, there has been a renewed interest in preserving Alsatian as a cultural heritage, though its use has diminished significantly.

Cultural Significance

  • Alsatian is more than just a language; it is a symbol of the region's unique identity, blending French and German influences.
  • It is often associated with traditional Alsatian customs, cuisine (e.g., tarte flambée, choucroute), and festivals (e.g., Christmas markets).
  • The dialect is a source of pride for many locals, representing their connection to Alsace's history and traditions.

2. Current Usage of Alsatian in Strasbourg

How Widely is Alsatian Spoken Today?

  • Decline in Use: Alsatian is considered an endangered language. According to recent estimates, only about 10–15% of the population in Alsace speaks the dialect fluently, and most speakers are older adults.
  • Generational Gap: Younger generations are less likely to speak Alsatian, as French is the dominant language in schools and public life.
  • Urban vs. Rural Divide: Alsatian is more commonly spoken in rural areas of Alsace than in Strasbourg, which is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population.

Where Might You Hear Alsatian in Strasbourg?

  • Traditional Markets: You may hear Alsatian spoken at local markets, especially during the famous Strasbourg Christmas Market ("Christkindelsmärik").
  • Cultural Events: Festivals, folk music performances, and traditional celebrations often feature Alsatian songs and phrases.
  • Older Generations: You are more likely to hear Alsatian spoken by older residents in casual settings, such as cafés or community gatherings.

3. Learning the Alsatian Dialect

Where Can You Learn Alsatian?

  1. Language Schools and Classes:

    • Some local organizations and cultural associations in Strasbourg offer Alsatian language courses. Examples include:
      • OLCA (Office pour la Langue et la Culture d’Alsace): This organization promotes the Alsatian language and culture and often organizes classes and workshops.
      • Université Populaire Européenne (UPE): Offers occasional courses in Alsatian.
    • Costs for classes typically range from €50 to €200, depending on the duration and intensity of the course.

  2. Online Resources:

    • Elsässisch.net: A website dedicated to learning Alsatian, with vocabulary lists, grammar explanations, and audio recordings.
    • YouTube Channels: Some Alsatian speakers post videos teaching basic phrases and pronunciation.

  3. Books and Learning Materials:

    • Look for books like "S'elsässische Schbrichbüechle" (The Little Alsatian Phrasebook) or dictionaries that translate between Alsatian, French, and German.
    • Costs for books range from €10 to €30.

  4. Local Immersion:

    • Visit smaller towns and villages in Alsace, where Alsatian is more commonly spoken, to practice conversational skills.
    • Engage with locals at cultural events or traditional restaurants.

Tips for Learning Alsatian:

  • Start with German: If you already know German, learning Alsatian will be easier, as the two languages share many similarities.
  • Focus on Listening: Alsatian is primarily a spoken language, so listening to native speakers is crucial for picking up pronunciation and intonation.
  • Be Patient: Alsatian has many regional variations, so don’t be discouraged if you encounter differences in vocabulary or pronunciation.

4. Local Considerations and Cultural Tips

Engaging with Alsatian Speakers

  • Show Respect for the Dialect: Even if you only know a few words or phrases, locals will appreciate your effort to learn and use Alsatian. Common phrases include:
    • "Guete Morge" (Good morning)
    • "Wie geht's?" (How are you?)
    • "Dànkeschön" (Thank you)
  • Be Aware of Generational Differences: Younger people in Strasbourg are more likely to speak French or English, while older generations may be more familiar with Alsatian.

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Understand the Historical Context: Be mindful that the use of Alsatian has been shaped by a history of political and cultural tensions. Avoid making assumptions about someone’s linguistic preferences.
  • Blend In: While learning Alsatian is a great way to connect with the local culture, remember that French is the primary language in Strasbourg. Use French as your default language unless you know someone speaks Alsatian.

Practical Tips

  • Visit Cultural Institutions: The Alsatian Museum ("Musée Alsacien") in Strasbourg offers insights into the region’s traditions, including the role of the dialect.
  • Participate in Local Events: Attend events like the Strasbourg Christmas Market or regional wine festivals, where you can hear Alsatian spoken and experience the culture firsthand.

5. Conclusion

The Alsatian dialect is a unique and cherished aspect of Strasbourg’s cultural heritage. While its use has declined, it remains a powerful symbol of the region’s identity. By learning a few phrases, attending cultural events, and engaging with locals, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Alsace’s rich linguistic and cultural history. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-term resident, exploring Alsatian is a rewarding way to connect with Strasbourg’s traditions and people.