Essentials of Early English: Introduction To Old, Middle and Early Modern English

by Jeremy J. Smith

This is a completely revised and updated edition of a highly successful textbook.

It provides a practical and highly accessible introduction to the early stages of the English language: Old English, Middle English, and Early Modern English. Designed specifically as a handbook for students beginning the study of early English language, whether for linguistic or literary purposes, it presumes little or no prior knowledge of the history of English.

Features of this second edition include:

newly added Middle English and Early Modern English sample texts and accompanying notes a new section on historical methods web links and an updated annotated bibliography.

Genres: Linguistics

264 pages, Paperback

Published June 16, 2005

Reviews

[Cameron Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this guide useful for moving from studying Middle-English to Old English.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting read!

[Wouter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books I wished I had had at university. Not only does it give a very profound and clear introduction of Old, Middle and Early Modern English, it also introduces the basics of English in general. The exemplary texts vivify and clarify the material discussed in the book. I recommend it for everyone who wants to start getting into the pre-modern English languages.

[Ester · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent overview of the progression of English grammar from Old English through Middle English to Early Modern English. Professor Smith draws connections between the different stages of English, which is very helpful. A very handy reference that I will certainly keep going back to.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I used this as a supplement to the Mitchell. It turned out to be superfluous, but it's still a valuable tool. It contains all the necessary paradigms.