by Dennis Freeborn (Author)
This practical course book explores the development of the language from Old English to the establishment of Standard English. This third edition has been expanded to provide further background information, with a supplementary website and new sections to outline the development of writing hands and provide a brief introduction to palaeography.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 472
Edition: 3rd ed. 2006
Publisher: Palgrave
Published: 06 Oct 2006
ISBN 10: 1403998809
ISBN 13: 9781403998804
Book Overview: 'This is in many respects a really excellent book. The range of coverage is impressive, there is a strong emphasis on primary sources, and the material is clearly explained and presented in a format which assumes no prior knowledge. The treatment of spelling and punctuation change is particularly good, and there are many interesting and useful activities.' - Carole Hough, University of Glasgow, UK 'This study is an excellent textbook not only for English majors but for linguistic students of other languages as well who can benefit highly from a comparative perspective and tracing patterns of developments that took place in the English language. The activities offered at the end of each chapter are highly beneficial allowing readers to deepen their understanding of the contents of the chapters. The texts offer valuable explanation of the chronicles. It is an in depth study of the evolving variations in language over time and an insightful analysis of the development of the English language.' - Zeinab Ibrahim, The American University in Cairo Review of the previous edition: 'This volume is so crammed with examples from across the centuries that it is a pleasure to browse through its pages.' - The Guardian