Wandering in language

: senses of place and belonging among Esperanto Millennials

Abstract

This thesis interrogates the motivations, aspirations, and agendas of Esperanto Millennials from an anthropological and historical perspective. The research is based on extensive ethnographic fieldwork with the Esperanto community conducted in Brazil and the online environment, employing mixed methodologies. Aiming to provide insights into one of today’s most vibrant youth Esperanto communities, it situates it within the broader context of a worldwide cosmopolitan network, mapping Esperanto routes beyond local and national connections.

Through an examination of cases provided by Millennials, as well as earlier actors of the Esperanto movement, the thesis advances a more nuanced understanding of who Esperantists are, beyond just speakers of Esperanto. It addresses their interest in matters such as linguistic justice, sustainability (of the world they live in as well as of Esperanto), and civic education, with Esperanto functioning as a token of like-mindedness. Additionally, the thesis illuminates the playful element in their sociability. By exploring Esperantists’ bonds, it ultimately highlights that Esperanto is utilised not only as an international language, but also as a tool to create forms of local and national community.

Date of Award	29 Jun 2026
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of St Andrews
Supervisor	Mark Harris (Supervisor) & Bernhard Struck (Supervisor)