The Routledge Handbook of World Englishes

The Routledge Handbook of World Englishes provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of World Englishes, covering historical perspectives, regional varieties, trends, and pedagogical implications. The second edition includes up-to-date descriptions of varieties and hot topics, making it an ideal resource for students of applied linguistics and related degrees.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 710 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Routledge Handbook of World Englishes is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the world of English, covering a wide range of topics and perspectives. With a total of 40 contributions divided into six sections, the Handbook delves into the diverse ways in which English is used across various fields, including business, popular culture, education, and new literatures in English.

One of the key themes of the Handbook is the increasing role of English as an international lingua franca. It highlights how English has become a universal language for communication, business, and travel, and how it is shaping the way people interact and communicate across different cultures and regions.

The Handbook provides a historical overview of the development of English as a language, tracing its roots back to the Anglo-Saxon period and its spread throughout the world through colonialism and globalization. It also explores the regional varieties of English that exist across different parts of the world, such as British English, American English, Australian English, and Indian English, and how these variations reflect the cultures and histories of their respective regions.

In addition to its historical and regional perspectives, the Handbook also examines the recent and emerging trends in the use of English. It discusses the impact of technology, globalization, and cultural exchange on the language, and how these factors have influenced the development of new dialects, slang, and vocabulary. The Handbook also explores the pedagogical implications of these trends, particularly in the context of teaching English as a second or foreign language.

One of the notable features of the Handbook is its extensive coverage of new literatures in English. It discusses the growing importance of English as a language for literature and cultural production in non-English-speaking countries, and how it is being used to express and explore new ideas and perspectives. The Handbook includes chapters on a wide range of new literatures, from African literature to Asian literature, and from postcolonial literature to digital literature.

Another important aspect of the Handbook is its focus on translanguaging and bilingualism. It explores how English is being used as a bridge language between different languages and cultures, and how it is influencing the development of new languages and linguistic practices. The Handbook also discusses the challenges and opportunities that arise from translanguaging and bilingualism, such as language loss, cultural identity, and language acquisition.

In conclusion, The Routledge Handbook of World Englishes is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the study of English and its global significance. With its comprehensive coverage of historical, regional, and emerging trends, as well as its focus on new literatures and translanguaging, the Handbook provides a thorough and up-to-date overview of the field. It is an ideal resource for students of applied linguistics, as well as those in related degrees such as applied English language and TESOL/TEFL.

Weight: 1264g
Dimension: 173 x 247 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367652883
Edition number: 2 ed