«a giovamento della studiosa gioventù». Descrizione e prescrizione nella gramatica di Vincenzo Raimondo Porru

Rita Fresu

First

2023-01-01

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Abstract

The contribution proposes a historical-linguistic reading of the Saggio di gramatica sul dialetto sardo meridionale, published in 1811 by the Stamperia Reale in Cagliari by the priest Vincenzo Raimondo Porru (1773-1836), a teacher of «latinity» in the schools of Cagliari, and author, a few decades later, of the more famous Nou dizionariu universali sardu-italianu (1832-1834). In his normative instruments Porru promotes modern Campidanese, of lively use, and of elevated register, within the broader movement of revaluation of the «national language», and of strengthening the latter through cultured and literary uses. At the same time, the grammar is expressly compiled «for the benefit of studious youth», and supported by the didactic-empirical principle according to which Sardinian constitutes a complementary tool to the teaching and learning of Italian. In this perspective, Porru’s compendium is among the functional tools for the process of diffusion of the new language on the island to the detriment of the Iberian varieties and local dialects, which began with the annexation of Sardinia to the Savoy state. The analysis of the grammar, conducted transversally on some specific aspects (setting/structure; dependence/autonomy with respect to Latin; relationship with grammatical auctoritates; teaching method and linguistic variety), privileges the sections relating to the teaching of Tuscan, framing Porru’s positions within contemporary grammaticography, and restoring the Villanovese priest’s fine linguistic sensitivity and strong didactic vocation.