Czechast with Danny Bate: why Josef is Pepík
Czech language from the perspective of a linguist, broadcaster and soon an author Danny Bate.
In this episode, we’re delving into the fascinating world of language with someone who has made it both a profession and a passion – linguist, broadcaster, and my colleague at Radio Prague International, Danny Bate.
We discuss how the Czech language – far from being some pure, untouched relic – has always been a blend of influences. For example, the Czech revivalists of the 19th century who sought to purify the language didn't quite unearth some pristine version of Czech.
"They were not recognizing, or maybe they thought they were, but they were not actually recognizing some pure diamond-like Czech that had to be cleaned and scraped away from all external influence. That language had never existed. There are Celtic words, Germanic words in Czech, for example. Pure Czech has never existed."
We also uncovered some surprising connections, like how the common Czech name Pepík – a diminutive of Josef – owes its origins to Italian builders and artisans who came to Bohemia in the 17th and 18th centuries to help construct its grand Baroque architecture.
"Giuseppe is a form of Joseph, or Czech Josef, and since Italians call Giuseppe 'Pepe,' that’s how it got into Czech. So the typical Czech name 'Pepík' is actually of Italian origin. There you go – already you’re getting into great etymology. No language is an island, to paraphrase John Donne. All of these things are interconnected, and I just love that."
And even though Danny doesn’t speak Czech with his Czech fiancée, the Czech language still holds an important place in their household – especially when it comes to their furry companion:
"We always speak Czech to the cat, who is not Czech and also a cat. But frankly, I just find he's worthy of the Czech language. I even 'Vykat' with him – address him in the formal language. He's a very dignified cat."
So, in this episode we explore more about Danny’s journey as a linguist, his insights into the evolution of language in the 21st century, and how social networks are reshaping the way we speak and write.
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Czechast, Radio Prague International
Czechast is a regular RPI podcast about Czech and Moravian culture, history, and economy.
