Language attitudes and stereotypes towards the Russian language in post- soviet countries: a case study of Azerbaijan and Lithuania

Abstract

This thesis explores language attitudes and stereotypes towards the Russian language in post-Soviet countries with a focus on Azerbaijan and Lithuania particularly. In a globalized world where language plays a crucial role in shaping societal dynamics, understanding the multilingual perceptions and attitudes towards a language as significant as Russian is important. The aim of this study is to investigate the ways in which these attitudes and stereotypes affect the use, learning, and maintaining the Russian language in Azerbaijan and Lithuania. It also explores the underlying causes and motives of these attitudes and stereotypes and their impact on language policies in both of these countries. The results of this study demonstrate the linguistic perspectives and motives that influence language attitudes and stereotypes about the Russian language. Moreover, the thesis reveals the complicated relationships between language attitudes, history, and present political realities that impact language laws and social dynamics in Lithuania and Azerbaijan. By offering a comprehensive analysis of language attitudes in post-Soviet contexts, this thesis contributes to a deeper understanding of linguistic dynamics and societal complexities in these two countries.