1. Common Languages:
* Vernacular Languages: These were the everyday languages spoken by the majority of the population. They varied widely across regions and even within communities. Examples include Old English, Old French, and Old German.
* Regional Languages: These were more localized varieties of vernacular languages, often spoken in specific geographical areas.
* Local Dialects: Within vernaculars, there were even more localized dialects, sometimes barely intelligible to speakers from other communities.
2. Official Languages:
* Latin: This was the language of the Church, scholarship, law, and diplomacy. It was used extensively in written documents, religious texts, and official communication.
* French: While Latin was the primary language of administration, French gradually gained influence as the language of the French court and aristocracy. It became important in some regions, especially in England after the Norman Conquest.
* Other Languages: Depending on the region and the specific historical period, other languages could also hold official status. For example, Spanish was used in parts of Spain, and Old Norse in parts of Scandinavia.
Key Differences:
* Usage: Common languages were used for everyday communication, while official languages were used for formal purposes.
* Prestige: Official languages held higher prestige than common languages, often associated with power, education, and authority.
* Written vs. Oral: Official languages were more frequently written, while common languages were primarily spoken.
* Stability: Official languages tended to be more stable, while common languages evolved more rapidly and diverged into different dialects.
Examples:
* In England, Old English was the common language, while Latin and French were used for official purposes.
* In France, Old French was the common language, while Latin was used for official documentation.
* In Italy, various regional dialects were spoken, while Latin remained the official language of the Church and government.
Important Note:
The distinction between common languages and official languages was not always clear-cut, and there was often overlap and interaction. Vernacular languages could be used in official settings, and official languages could influence common speech.
It's crucial to remember that the Middle Ages were a period of great linguistic diversity, and the specific situation varied greatly depending on time, place, and social class.