The Maltese Language and its Linguistic Relations

The Maltese language (L-Ilsien Malti) is a linguistic gem in the heart of the Mediterranean. It is the official language of Malta and enjoys the unique distinction of being the only Semitic language written in the Latin script. Delving into its roots and affiliations allows us to trace not only the language’s evolution but also the island nation’s vibrant history, colored by various Mediterranean cultures. Here, we explore the languages to which Maltese is related and its historical and linguistic connections with them.

Semitic Origins

The foundation of the Maltese language lies in its Semitic origins. The Semitic languages are a branch of the larger Afroasiatic language family.

Arabic

Maltese is most closely related to Maghrebi Arabic, particularly the variant spoken in Tunisia. Historical records suggest that the Muslim Arabs who invaded Malta in the 9th century brought with them the Arabic language. Over time, while the Maltese islands underwent various political changes, the Arabic influence persisted in the local language. Even today, a significant portion of the Maltese vocabulary is of Arabic origin, and the basic grammatical structure remains Semitic. Common words such as “dar” (house) and “tajjeb” (good) showcase this link.

Other Semitic Languages

While the primary Semitic influence on Maltese is Arabic, some traces of other Semitic languages, like Phoenician, might exist due to ancient settlers and traders in the region. However, the evidence is mostly indirect and debated among scholars.

Romance Influence

Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean has led to its occupation by various powers over the millennia. The extended rule by the Norman and Spanish kingdoms, both of Romance linguistic backgrounds, profoundly influenced the Maltese language.

Sicilian and Italian

From the late medieval period up until the 19th century, Malta was significantly influenced by its neighbors from the Italian peninsula. The Maltese language, consequently, absorbed a vast array of vocabulary and even some grammatical structures from Sicilian and Italian. Terms related to law, administration, art, and the church often have Romance roots. Words like “skola” (school) and “palestra” (gym) in Maltese attest to this relationship.

English Influence

The British Empire ruled Malta from the early 19th century until 1964. This colonial period has left an indelible mark on the Maltese language. English is now one of the official languages of Malta, and Maltese has borrowed a significant number of English terms, especially in the realms of technology, politics, and modern daily life. For instance, “televixin” (television) and “kompjuter” (computer) have been integrated into the language.

Other Influences

French

The brief period of French rule in Malta during Napoleon Bonaparte’s time and the proximity of the French culture led to the inclusion of French-derived words in the Maltese vocabulary. Examples include “bonswa” (good evening) and “burdun” (burden).

Conclusion

The Maltese language offers a fascinating lens into the island nation’s history, reflecting its Semitic roots, Romance liaisons, British colonial influences, and interactions with other Mediterranean cultures. The language stands as a testament to Malta’s resilience and ability to integrate various cultural elements, making it a unique and enriching linguistic tapestry.