An undergraduate course on the historical development of the english language

Abstract

This book serves as an essential guide for undergraduate students beginning their exploration of the history of the English language. It offers a concise yet thorough overview of the evolution of the language, tracing its development from Old English origins to its current status as a global lingua franca. The volume examines the cultural and social influences that have shaped English, illustrating how linguistic changes emerged within specific historical contexts. Key topics include a focus on phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, examined across all periods of the English language. The book also explores how territorial expansion introduced elements from other languages, enriching English vocabulary and diversifying its structure. Additionally, it underscores the significance of early English text editions as invaluable resources for understanding linguistic variation and change across time. Students are introduced to computational tools and methodologies for analysing linguistic data, providing a foundation for modern approaches in linguistics. Practical activities throughout the text encourage active engagement, with a detailed answer key included to support both independent study and classroom learning. With its clear structure and accessible style, this volume aims to be a useful resource for students embarking on their study of English linguistics and its historical development.