Linguistica e studi di genere: un matrimonio impossibile?

This essay outlines the principal intersections between linguistics and gender studies from a diachronic perspective, emphasising linguistics’ role in relation to gender within current scholarly debates. It examines linguistics through its sub-disciplines and their connections with gender studies, premised on the understanding that language is a primary cultural manifestation and thus central to perpetuating and reinforcing
gender stereotypes within cultural traditions. Particular attention is devoted to educational linguistics, glottodidactics, and ethnolinguistics, where the interplay between language, society, and culture is especially pronounced. The analysis further considers the Italian context, with a focus on controversies surrounding inclusive forms such as the asterisk and the schwa. The concluding section discusses the role of the Accademia della Crusca, highlighting recent developments in its stance and approach that carry significant implications for linguistic analysis.