WiSe 18/19: Ü-Language Change I
Ferdinand von Mengden
Comments
Language varies and changes. All the time. At any place. Yet, if we take a closer look, we will see that linguistic developments do not always have to be random. There are discernible patterns underlying language variation and identifiable pathways of linguistic change. Moreover, a change on one linguistic level (syntax, morphology, phonology, lexicon) may in turn trigger a shift of the system in one of the other domains. In addition, explanations of existing structures and how they come into being are not necessarily internal to the linguistic system. In fact, it is often social, psychological or cognitive factors which result in variation and change.
In this class, we will examine these patterns and principles of linguistic change. We will see how human language changes, grows apart and converges. And we will examine how and why the structures of a language nevertheless remain sufficiently stable to allow successful communication. While these principles apply cross-linguistically, we will examine them primarily, but not exclusively, by looking at examples from English.
Those who wish to participate but cannot come to the first class are kindly asked to notify me via email before the beginning of the lecture period.
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Regular appointments