'O Casciunciello (bauletto) has recently been published, a handy primer-textbook of the Neapolitan language edited by Massimiliano Verde, head of the socio-linguistic scientific group Accademia Napoletana and contact for LinguaPax International. The latter is an NGO based in Barcelona, with consultative status with UNESCO, which deals with the protection of linguistic communities at risk. Furthermore, Verde also collaborates with the AIAE (Association of Italian-American Educators), chaired by Cav. Josephine Maietta.
Article Key Points
A Publication with an International Focus
The booklet, already distributed from the United States to Australia, is intended as a preview of a much larger work in development. Verde dedicates it in particular to schools in Campania, primarily public primary and lower secondary schools (the so-called “piccerelle” schools), offering them an educational tool that enhances the linguistic and cultural heritage of Neapolitan tradition.
Contents and Structure of the Alphabet
'O Casciunciello is composed of a nice illustrated primer with images combined with expressions, phraseologies and typical contents of the Neapolitan language. After a brief historical introduction on the evolution of Neapolitan, the volume focuses on the fundamental ortho-grammatical rules, highlighting the most common errors made by those who try to write (and speak) the Neapolitan idiom correctly.
A Tribute to the Masters of the Language
As in all his works, Verde dedicates this work to his Masters: Prof. Carlo Iandolo, Dr. Raffaele Bracale and Avv. Renato De Falco, whom he defines as "the pillars of contemporary Neapolitan". In particular, he continues the commitment of Iandolo and Bracale, of whom he considers himself a student and continuator of the scientific and cultural path.
A Project for Schools and New Generations
'O Casciunciello represents a further step in the work of dissemination and valorization of Neapolitan conducted by Massimiliano Verde, already author of the first course of Neapolitan language and culture according to the QCER, recognized by the Municipality of Naples in 2017. The text is proposed as a simple, agile and didactically effective tool for the inclusion of Neapolitan in regional school programs, in continuity with educational projects already carried out by Verde and also the object of attention by international bodies, including UNESCO.
Article published on 14 April 2025 - 14:37
It seems to me an interesting initiative, especially for the schools of Campania that could benefit from this primer. But I hope it will be used well and not just to make another book. The Neapolitan language is important.
I agree that it is essential to protect regional languages, but there is always the risk that it will not be taken seriously in school curricula. It would be useful to have more information on how this will be implemented.