The Mayan Languages

This comprehensive volume offers an authoritative survey of the Mayan language family, tracing its development from the Classic Maya civilization era through contemporary usage by over six million indigenous speakers across Central America. Written by a team of specialized linguists, this reference work provides detailed grammatical descriptions and linguistic analysis that will serve as foundational material for serious students of Mesoamerican languages. The book systematically covers the historical development, phonological systems, and syntactic structures that characterize this diverse language family, making it an essential resource for understanding both ancient and modern Mayan linguistic traditions.

What distinguishes this collection is its balance of historical depth with contemporary relevance, connecting ancient hieroglyphic texts to living languages still spoken throughout the Maya region. The contributors' expertise shines through in chapters that are both technically precise and accessible to those with linguistic training, though the material assumes familiarity with linguistic terminology and concepts. Advanced students and researchers will find this work indispensable for its comprehensive coverage and scholarly rigor, while anyone interested in language preservation and indigenous linguistic heritage will appreciate its documentation of these vital cultural resources. This volume stands as the definitive modern reference on Mayan languages, bridging ancient civilization with living linguistic practice.