Historical Development of Teaching Turkish Language in Poland

Abstract

Turkish language teaching in Poland was initiated with diplomatic relationsbetween the Turks and Poles. It is also possible to start with Turkish words takingplace in Polish. It can also start with the settlement of Tatar and Karay Turks in Polishterritory. Turkish language learning started in Poland palace after 16th century and astradition it continued until the division. We learn from sources that the kings of PolandStefan Batory and Jan Sobieski III could speak Turkish. It should be added that otheroriental languages and Turkish language were learned in Dominican and Jesuit sects.We also know that aristocrats learned Turkish language and particularly Dzierżka,Otwinowski, Zamoyski, Sobieski, Czartoryski and Potocki families encouragedlearning Turkish language. Turkish language has been taught in the academies withother oriental languages since the beginning of the 19th century. It should be notedthat Polish Turcologists have had significant contribution to Turcology science in20th century. In this study, we will try to mention all aspects of the history of Turkishlanguage teaching from past to present in Poland.