Me nem nesa: Investigating the reception of constructed languages in different age groups

Abstract

The concept of artificially created languages is not new, but, owing to pop culture, it has recently received more attention. Constructed languages, or conlangs, are present in books, movies and video games, aimed at recipients of all ages. Contrary to natural languages, which emerged without conscious planning, constructed languages are designed to serve a certain purpose.

There are many motives triggering the creation of new languages, from linguistic experiments and language games to making communication easier. However, the most common reason behind the emergence of artificial languages during the last twenty years appears to be the enrichment of the world they belong to. Interestingly, the response of the audience varies depending on age. The aim of this paper is to examine samples of constructed languages present in recent pop culture and the effects they have on both their respective target groups and the rest of the audience.