Steinar Schjøtt, Norwegian philologist and lexicographer (b. 1844)

Steinar Schjøtt (13 November 1844 – 11 January 1920) was a prominent Norwegian intellectual whose multifaceted career significantly shaped the educational and linguistic landscape of Norway during a pivotal period of national identity formation. Recognized as a dedicated educator, a profound philologist, and an influential lexicographer, Schjøtt's work left an indelible mark on the development and standardization of the Norwegian language, particularly Nynorsk.

As an educator, Schjøtt dedicated many years to teaching, including a significant tenure at Hamar Cathedral School from 1874. His pedagogical approach was rooted in a deep understanding of language and its role in intellectual development, contributing to the education of future generations of Norwegians. He was known for his rigorous scholarship and his ability to convey complex linguistic concepts to his students.

His contributions as a philologist were equally profound. Schjøtt possessed an exceptional command of both classical and Nordic languages, focusing extensively on the historical and structural aspects of Norwegian dialects and the evolving national language. He was a leading figure in the "målsak" or Norwegian language movement, which championed the use and development of Landsmål (later known as Nynorsk) as a distinct and viable national language, separate from the Danish-influenced Riksmål (Bokmål). His philological research provided a scholarly foundation for these linguistic aspirations.

However, it was arguably as a lexicographer that Steinar Schjøtt made his most enduring contributions. He played a crucial role in creating authoritative dictionaries that supported the use and understanding of Nynorsk. Among his most significant works are the Dansk-norsk Ordbog (1884), compiled in collaboration with A. Larsen, which helped bridge the gap between Danish and the emerging Norwegian linguistic forms. His magnum opus, the comprehensive Norsk Ordbok med Norsk Bokmål (1914), was a monumental achievement. This dictionary was designed not only to standardize and document Nynorsk vocabulary but also to make it accessible to speakers of Bokmål, thereby fostering a greater understanding and acceptance of the Nynorsk standard. He also contributed to the creation of dictionaries specifically for use in schools, such as the Norsk Skoleordbok, further embedding Nynorsk in the educational system. These works were instrumental in providing the practical tools necessary for the widespread adoption and consistent usage of Nynorsk, laying a critical foundation for its place in Norwegian society.

Beyond his lexicographical endeavors, Schjøtt also demonstrated the expressive capacity of Nynorsk through his translations. His notable achievements include rendering Homer's epic poems, the Odyssey and the Iliad, into Nynorsk, showcasing the language's richness and suitability for literary and scholarly work. Steinar Schjøtt's tireless efforts as an educator, philologist, and lexicographer cemented his legacy as a pivotal figure in Norwegian language history, whose dedication significantly advanced the cause of Nynorsk and enriched the cultural heritage of his nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Steinar Schjøtt

Who was Steinar Schjøtt and what were his main contributions?

Steinar Schjøtt (1844–1920) was a distinguished Norwegian educator, philologist, and lexicographer. His main contributions lie in his extensive work on the Norwegian language, particularly his role in the development and standardization of Nynorsk. He authored crucial dictionaries like the Norsk Ordbok med Norsk Bokmål (1914) and translated classical works into Nynorsk, significantly promoting its use and accessibility.

Why is Steinar Schjøtt considered an important figure in Norwegian language history?

Schjøtt is important because he was a key advocate and practical facilitator of the "målsak" (Norwegian language movement), which aimed to establish Nynorsk as a national standard. His comprehensive dictionaries provided the necessary tools for Nynorsk's adoption in education and everyday life, bridging linguistic divides and strengthening Norway's cultural identity through language.

What was the significance of his Norsk Ordbok med Norsk Bokmål (1914)?

This dictionary was a landmark achievement. It not only meticulously documented and standardized Nynorsk vocabulary but was also designed to be accessible to speakers of Bokmål (the other main Norwegian language form). This dual focus helped to legitimize Nynorsk and facilitate its integration, making it easier for a wider audience to understand and utilize the language, thus playing a crucial role in the ongoing linguistic standardization process in Norway.