One in a series of articles relating major European languages to cultural traits or artifacts finds similarities in Russian and the "isba," a country cabin found mostly in the northern part of the country. (MSE)

The fourth in a series of articles on the relationships of European languages to their cultures looks at the role of the theater in Italian culture and the theatricality of the Italian language. (MSE)

In the first of six articles about the links between cultural and linguistic traits, the ways in which French linguistic structures and imagination create a culture are explored. (MSE)

Two articles address change and conflict concerning the French language. One discusses the comparative roles of English and French at the United Nations office in Geneva; the other is in response to the opinions of Philippe de Saint Robert on the need to protect French from change. (MSE)

The three following myths are discussed: 1) language is culture, 2) a "Francophony" exists, and 3) there is a dialogue between cultures. The concept of "interculture" is then examined. (MSE)

The fifth in a series of articles comparing modern languages to cultural or practical objects relates Spanish to a grill or grid, rigid and confining. (MSE)

England's Durham Project studied the effect of French language instruction on young students' openness toward the French people and understanding of the French way of life. Attention was focused on the style of instruction and the role of the textbook in the development of cross-cultural attitudes. (MSE)

It is suggested that the emphasis in second-language instruction be placed less on understanding what the target culture is and more on how to behave appropriately within that culture, because the latter and not the former is the key to true intercultural communication. (MSE)

An Italian conference on the role of language instruction in Italian schools is summarized. Special attention is given to the potential for linking language teaching to secondary education reform efforts. (MSE)

In the third of a series on the logic of European languages, phonological, morphological, and syntactic idiosyncracies of German are discussed as they relate to the language's cultural context and philosophical heritage. (MSE)

The popularity of French second language instruction, the rebirth of bilingual education, and efforts to establish links with French industry locating in Eastern Europe offer an example to France. It is clear that Eastern Europe views bilingualism as a means of revitalizing the region's role in the European community. (MSE)

A conference held at Cluny (France), an ancient gathering place of scholars, brought together diplomats, linguists, information scientists, and academics from 17 countries to discuss the role of languages in the newly formed European Community and the paradox of unification amidst great cultural diversity. (MSE)

The different concepts underlying the terms "foreign language,""second language," and "native language" are examined in the context of social change that blurs cultural delineations. The implications for language instruction in a variety of contexts and with a variety of objectives are discussed. (MSE)

Discusses second language learning in the context of linguistic and societal needs of the learner. (AM)

Discusses the status of Creoles and their role in the education system of Creole-speaking countries, particularly those Creoles based on and competing with French. (AM)