Spring 2006

E 364M • History of the English Language

Course Description

This course will offer a diachronic study of the English language by focusing both on its internal history (phonological, syntactical, and lexical changes) and its external history (political, social, and intellectual influences since the fifth century). Class lecture and discussion will cover such topics as the Indo-European Family of Languages, Old English, The Norman Conquest and the Subjection of English (1066-1200), The Re-establishment of English (1200-1500), Middle English, The Renaissance (1500-1650), The Appeal to Authority (1650-1800), The Nineteenth Century and After, and the English Language in America.

Grading Policy

One in-class essay 30%
One oral presentation 30%
Regular homework exercises and class participation 40%

Texts

Albert C. Baugh and Thomas Cable, A History of the English Language
Thomas Cable, A Companion to Baugh & Cable's History of the English Language

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