The myth of bilingualism and linguistical colonization in Paraguay

Abstract

This article aims to demystify national narratives about the language issue in Paraguay and discover the unjust relations of power and domination that they hide. The author analyzes the alleged Paraguayan bilingualism as a socio-cultural rather than linguistic phenomenon and indicates that it is a myth and a nationalist discourse aimed at creating legitimate linguistic colonization. After presenting the genealogy, the functions and objectives of the myth, the author deconstructs the myth, not only from a historical perspective, but also considering the current language policies in the country.