WiSe 18/19: PS-Historical Linguistics: History of English II
Martin Konvicka
Comments
In this seminar, we will accompany English on its way from being a Germanic dialect towards becoming a global lingua franca. We will survey the changes in phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics as well as the broader societal developments. A number of concrete case studies will be expanded by discussions of their theoretical implications. Furthermore, our investigation of the history of the English language will also include a comparative aspect. To properly understand the linguistic development of English, we will contrast it with the other Germanic languages such as German or Dutch.
The aim of this is course is threefold. First, to provide an overview of the history of the English language. Second, to familiarise the students with the principles of historical linguistics. Third, to demonstrate how the knowledge of the English linguistic history enables us to better understand how English functions today and how it might change in the future.
Students who, for any reason, cannot attend the first class are kindly asked to contact me in advance.
Requirements
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?
- regular and active attendance ?
- regular reading assignments ?
- oral presentation
16 Class schedule
Regular appointments