Eesti keelekogukonna säilimisest Taanis

Abstract

This article focuses on the use of the Estonian language by the first and second generation of Estonians, living in Denmark. The first generation of Estonians came to Denmark as a consequence of World War II, in 1944. This group of Estonians is defined in this study as the first generation. The second generation are the children of the first generation, born already in Denmark. First generation Estonians living in Denmark have preserved their mother tongue, however number of second generation Danish Estonians still speaking Estonian is very small. Carol Myers-Scotton discussed some specific factors that seem to influence language maintenance and shift (2006). She grouped the factors into three categories: the societal-level factors; the ingroup factors; and individual views and aspirations. Our analysis will be based on the factors contributing to the preserving of the L1 presented by Carol Myers-Scotton.