SoSe 20: PS- History of English II
Anna Islentyeva
Comments
This seminar explores the development of the English language, from its origins as a Germanic dialect to its modern-day status as global lingua franca, focusing on changes in phonology, morphology, semantics and grammar, as well as the relationship of English to other Germanic (German, Dutch, Swedish) and Indo-European languages. Students are introduced to the phenomenon of language change, which will help them gain insight into the structure of Modern English; for instance, we will look at the principles that originally governed the spelling of English in order to identify the reasons for the inconsistencies that have arisen during the development and evolution of the English language. Finally, the seminar refers to the notions of Standard English and linguistic varieties, with a focus on the regional varieties of British English and the differences between British and US English.
Course Requirements include regular attendance, active participation (oral presentation, participation in class activities), final quiz and a short term paper.
close12 Class schedule
Regular appointments