A Social History of English / Edition 2

by Mr Dick Leith, Dick Leith

Overview

A Social History of English is the first history of the English language to utilize the techniques, insights and concerns of sociolinguistics. Written in a non-technical way, it takes into account standardization, pidginization, bi- and multilingualism, the issues of language maintenance and language loyalty, and linguistic variation.
This new edition has been fully revised. Additions include: * new material about 'New Englishes' across the world
* a new chapter entitled 'A Critical Linguistic History of English Texts'
* a discussion of problems involved in writing a history of English
All terms and concepts are explained as they are introduced, and linguistic examples are chosen for their accessibility and intelligibility to the general reader.
It will be of interest to students of Sociolinguistics, English Language, History and Cultural Studies.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415164566
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	06/05/1997
Edition description:	REV
Pages:	312
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Mr Dick Leith, Dick Leith

Table of Contents

Introduction Part I Emergence and consolidation 1 Languages in contact 2 Standardisation and writing Part II Changing patterns of usage 3 Words and meanings 4 Grammar 5 Pronunciation Part III Imposition and spread 6 The imposition of English in the British Isles 7 English as an international language Part IV Evidence, interpretation and theory 8 A critical linguistic history of English texts

Editorial Reviews

'A fascinating account ... Leith assumes no technical linguistic knowledge on the part of the reader and his book will be accessible and valuable not only to students of sociolinguistics but also to those interested in language from the perspectives of literature, history or cultural studies.' - Spoken English

'Leith's book is very learned, forgiving and clear-headed.' - Nicholas Lezard, The Guardian

This book is at once erudite, accessible and engaging ... Throughout the book he emphasizes the variability and vitality of the language throughout the ages ... I would strongly recommend Leith's book for the general reader, and, for those interested in language.' - The British Journal of General Practice

From the Publisher