A Historical Morphology of English

This book provides students with a comprehensive overview of English inflectional and derivational morphology, tracing the major developments over time and exploring the sources of linguistic innovation. It is organized chronologically and highlights the importance of learner errors, lexical analogy, productivity, and language and dialect contact in morphological change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Charting the significant developments in the morphology of English, this comprehensive book offers students an insightful introduction to English inflectional and derivational morphology. It provides a comprehensive perspective on language change, spanning a long historical timeline. The book is structured around chronological periods that are pivotal for each significant morphological shift, encompassing Old, Middle, and Early Modern English, leading to Modern English. Moreover, it delves into four key sources of linguistic innovation: learner errors in categorical inflectional systems, lexical analogy, productivity in derivational systems, and language and dialect contact. Through these explorations, the book showcases the profound insights that the history of English Morphology offers into the broader realm of morphological change.

Introduction:
Charting the major developments in the morphology of English, this book serves as an invaluable resource for students seeking to understand the intricacies of English inflectional and derivational morphology. It provides a comprehensive and chronological overview of language change, spanning a vast historical timeline. The book is structured around chronological periods that are pivotal for each significant morphological shift, encompassing Old, Middle, and Early Modern English, leading to Modern English.

Sources of Linguistic Innovation:
In addition to its historical perspective, the book delves into four key sources of linguistic innovation: learner errors in categorical inflectional systems, lexical analogy, productivity in derivational systems, and language and dialect contact. These sources shed light on the mechanisms and processes that drive morphological change over time. By exploring these innovative approaches, students gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of language and the factors that contribute to its evolution.

Significance of English Morphology:
The history of English Morphology offers invaluable insights into morphological change in general. By studying the evolution of English, students can gain a broader understanding of the patterns and processes that govern language change across different languages and cultures. This knowledge can enhance their appreciation of the diversity and complexity of the linguistic world and contribute to their ability to analyze and interpret language data effectively.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Charting the major developments in the morphology of English is a comprehensive and engaging book that provides students with a solid foundation in English inflectional and derivational morphology. By exploring the historical, linguistic, and innovative aspects of English morphology, students gain a deeper understanding of the language and its evolution. This knowledge will not only enrich their academic pursuits but also enhance their communication skills and cultural awareness.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 146 x 227 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474459761