Publication of The Catholicon in Breton and French
The Catholicon, authored by Jehan Lagadeuc, is recognized as the first Breton dictionary, as well as the first dictionary of the French language. Written in 1464 in Tréguier, it served as an essential linguistic resource for both Breton and French speakers. The publication marks a pivotal moment in the preservation of the Breton language and cultural identity. It reflected the growing need for educational materials in regional languages and aided in standardizing terms.
The first Breton and French dictionaries published.
Authored by Jehan Lagadeuc in Tréguier.
Facilitated the preservation of the Breton language.
Served as a vital educational resource for speakers.
What Happened?
The Catholicon, written by Jehan Lagadeuc in 1464, is noteworthy for being the first dictionary of the Breton language and also the first comprehensive French dictionary. Lagadeuc created this linguistic guide in the town of Tréguier, located in Brittany, France. His work was driven by the necessity to capture the Breton vernacular, which was facing challenges due to the strong influence of the French language in the region. Given the cultural and political changes occurring during this period, the preservation and promotion of the Breton language became increasingly important. Published later, in 1499, The Catholicon played a crucial role in the standardization and transmission of Breton culture and language. The dictionary included not only a wealth of vocabulary but also examples of usage which served to educate and inform readers about the language, enhancing literacy in the region.
Why Does it Matter?
The publication of The Catholicon is significant as it represents a turning point in the recognition of regional languages, particularly Breton, during a time when central European powers were pushing for linguistic and cultural uniformity. This dictionary not only aimed to preserve the Breton language but also fostered a sense of identity amongst the Breton speakers, contributing to the ongoing vitality of Brittany’s culture and language. Such a dictionary provided foundational support for future linguistic studies and cultural preservation efforts.