Perceptions of Appalachian English in Kentucky

Abstract

Abstract This paper examines how non-Appalachians in Kentucky position the varieties of English spoken in Appalachia. In examining the language attitudes held by Louisvillians, I highlight the extent to which stereotypes associated with Appalachia (i.e., ignorance, lack of education) are widely held and explore how urban Kentuckians distinguish themselves from Appalachians. The study utilizes the tools of perceptual dialectology to explore how non-Appalachians distance themselves from what they perceive to be incorrect, nonstandard ways of speaking. The analysis includes an examination of individual and composite maps, a qualitative discussion of the labels employed for the Appalachian region, and a quantitative analysis of language attitudes about Appalachian Englishes held by non-Appalachians in terms of social characteristics like correctness, pleasantness, and beauty. This paper shows that despite positive transformations in the region, negative stereotypes about Appalachian speech are, unfortunately, alive and well.

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