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English Dialects From the Eighth Century to the Present Day   By: (1835-1912)

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English Dialects From the Eighth Century to the Present Day by Walter W. Skeat is an incredibly comprehensive and enlightening exploration of the evolution of English dialects. Skeat's extensive research and expertise in the field shine through every page of this remarkable book.

One of the remarkable aspects of this work is the author's ability to seamlessly weave together historical linguistic analysis with a compelling narrative. Skeat takes us on a journey from the early Middle English period, examining the influences of Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Norman French on dialect formation. Through his meticulous exploration, the complex web of regional variations becomes clear, reflecting the fascinating diversity within the English language.

What truly sets this book apart is Skeat's inclusion of primary sources and linguistic examples. He peppers the text with excerpts from manuscripts, poems, and oral accounts, giving readers a real sense of the richness and depth of the dialects being discussed. This integration of original material not only evidences the author's scholarly rigor but also makes for an engaging and immersive reading experience.

Another strength of this work lies in its organization. Skeat carefully structures each chapter, ensuring a logical progression while also allowing for independent readings of specific sections. Whether delving into the historical context, phonological changes, or grammatical evolutions, readers will find themselves captivated by the nuanced explanations and the light that they shed on the complexities of regional dialects.

Moreover, Skeat's prose strikes the perfect balance between academic precision and accessibility. While the subject matter itself can be dense at times, the author's clear and lucid writing style makes even the most intricate concepts understandable to both specialists and general readers alike. This approach makes the book not only an invaluable resource for linguistics students but also an enjoyable read for anyone interested in the history and diversity of the English language.

In conclusion, English Dialects From the Eighth Century to the Present Day is a masterful work that successfully combines scholarly rigor, engaging narrative, and meticulous research. Walter W. Skeat's expertise shines throughout, making this book an indispensable resource for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of how English dialects have evolved over centuries.

First Page:

{Transcriber's Note:

All square brackets [] are from the original text. Braces {} ("curly brackets") are supplied by the transcriber.

Characters that could not be fully expressed are "unpacked" and shown within braces, top to bottom: {oe} oe ligature {)o} o with breve (short vowel sign) }

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS London: Fetter Lane, E.C. C. F. CLAY, Manager

{Illustration: Coat of Arms}

Edinburgh: 100, Princes Street Berlin: A. Asher and Co. Leipzig: F.A. Brockhaus New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons Bombay and Calcutta: Macmillan and Co., Ltd

All rights reserved

{Illustration: Decorative Title Page encompassing all text from "English Dialects" through "1912"}

ENGLISH DIALECTS

From the Eighth Century to the Present Day

by the

REV. WALTER W. SKEAT, Litt.D., D.C.L., LL.D., Ph.D., F.B.A. Elrington and Bosworth Professor of Anglo Saxon and Fel low of Christ's College. Founder and formerly Director of the English Dialect Society

"English in the native garb;" K... Continue reading book >>




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