A History of the English Language, Fifth Edition

This excellent work, now in its 6th edition, is the standard text for many Australian University students studying what they thought was English, but it has now, at some Universities at least , been converted to a History subject at Masters level.It is such an authoritative work that merely commenting on it seems superfluous: if you really want to understand hos the English language came about, was influenced by he Romans in Britain, and was then subjected to a long series of change brought about as a result of much pillage and plunder by Angles, Saxons, Vikings, Norse as well as the underlying Celtic traditions.With the Norman conquest in 1066 there was wrought another fundamental change and one where the common man spoke a different language from the Norman aristocracy. Indeed, Henry V was the first English king to make use of the rude language that was still forming, that we now call the English language.Bt that language had still several variations to overcome, America, Canada, Australia and India added to the words used and thus influenced the development o the language we have today.The book also sets out some parameters for future change in the language.A fascinating book for any student of the English language to read as well as a well established textbook, this book comes highly recommended, at least by me.

Years ago, I was required to buy this book for a college class. It is the best reference I've found so I kept that copy. I didn't want to give mine to my sister, so I bought this one. It's still the best reference of its type I know.

It is a required reading for a graduate course. My instructor supplements this book with a lot of graphic/print aids which the book does not. It is fascinating how English has grown and evolved over time to become the Modern English we use today. Some information in the book would benefit from charts, tables, or maps to further illustrate the concepts.

I use this text for a class, but it can easily be read for leisure. It gives you a concise history of the English language, as noted by the title, and a possible future outlook. I'm only half-way through, but have come across some fascinating information already.  A History of the English Language  is a must read for all native English speakers and those who are learning English as an additional language.

If you want to know about this history of our language, this seems to be the bible, but it is a big book.

A good home addition for the English, Journalism, Editorial oriented person. I suspect Judy Dench of 8 out 10 Cats Does Countdown fame might own a copy!

Fascinating book on the history of the English language. Many very interesting historical facts are included in the book.

It was everything I needed it to be. Good condition and I'm happy I bought it. If the topic interest you, it's worth the price.

The book arrived in excellent condition and rapidly too. What more could I want ?

Very useful for my studies

A verx interesting book . it arrived in time, wrapped into a rain-proof envelope. It is a book you should have when studying the English Language

Great book and excellent value. Arrived quickly and in great condition. I would definitely recommend it, as I have thoroughly enjoyed it.

So much easier to read than other HEL books such as Gramley. Used it as a reference in pretty much all of my work.