Why Learn Fantasy Languages Like Dothraki and Valyrian?

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SUMMARY

Dothraki and Valyrian are constructed languages featured in the Game of Thrones series, with resources available for learning them, including a course at UC Berkeley. The discussion highlights the personal fulfillment and intellectual challenge associated with learning such languages, as exemplified by individuals who have successfully taught themselves fictional languages like Klingon and Elvish. The value of engaging with these languages lies in the unique experience of mastering a language that lacks comprehensive instructional materials, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of constructed languages and their cultural significance
  • Familiarity with language learning methodologies
  • Basic knowledge of linguistics
  • Interest in fantasy literature and media
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore resources for learning Dothraki and Valyrian, such as online courses and language guides
  • Investigate the linguistic structure of Tolkien's Elvish languages
  • Research the impact of constructed languages on popular culture
  • Learn about the challenges and techniques in self-directed language learning
USEFUL FOR

Language enthusiasts, fans of fantasy literature, educators in linguistics, and individuals interested in the cognitive benefits of learning constructed languages.

Greg Bernhardt
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Dothraki and Valyrian are two languages in Game of Thrones. Amazingly there are resources to actually learn these made up fantasy languages. There is even a course on Dothraki at UC Berkeley next year. I question who would find this worth their time. I remember a story several years ago where a father taught his son Klingon (Star Trek). I'm trying to figure out the upside in both developing these fantasy languages and also learning them.

https://www.dothraki.org/
 
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A close friend (who, incidentally, is currently doing cosmology research) once taught himself one of the Elvish languages from Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. I think the upside for him was the challenge of learning a language with no how-to guides whatsoever; he had to figure everything out (more or less) on his own. Granted, I don't believe the language was truly complete. Regardless, Tolkien's fictional languages are brilliant.
 

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