Boekbespreking. Algemene Atlas van Kongo

Summary

This review evaluates a language map of the Congo in the General Atlas by Van Bulck. It praises the map for adopting linguistic rather than ethnic criteria in areas like Katanga, avoiding excessive variants, and achieving a common orthography for language names. However, it identifies several classification defects: Mbanja should be a Banda dialect, the Megye group belongs to Eastern Sudanic, Kaonde groups with Luba, and Boyo/Vira/Masanze with Maniema. It also notes missing dialects in the Mongo area, unjustified splits of linguistic units due to ethnic reasons, and naming inconsistencies. The reviewer regrets the absence of important references. Overall, the map is well executed, balanced, and visually pleasing.