Trask's Historical Linguistics

Trasks Historical Linguistics provides an accessible introduction to historical linguistics, covering language change over time with examples from all six continents. The fourth edition is revised and updated, including a thorough reworking of sections on morphological and syntactic change, discussion of folk historical linguistics, expanded discussion of language contact, historical sociolinguistics, and language planning, and updated support material. It is essential reading for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students of historical linguistics and any student looking for a grounded introduction to the English language.

Format: Hardback
Length: 390 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Trasks Historical Linguistics is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the fascinating field of historical linguistics, which explores the study of language change over time. This engaging book is adorned with language examples from across six continents, providing a rich and diverse perspective on the evolution of language. It delves into the fundamental concepts of language change, including factors such as grammaticalization, sound change, and vocabulary evolution. The book also discusses various methods employed in historical linguistics, such as linguistic reconstruction, sociolinguistic aspects of language change, language contact, the birth and death of languages, language and prehistory, and the intriguing issue of very remote relations.

In its fourth edition, this renowned textbook has undergone a thorough revision and update to reflect the most recent developments in historical linguistics. The chapters on morphological and syntactic change have been extensively reworked, incorporating advancements in areas such as grammaticalization and the exploration of the Indo-European 'homeland.' The book also includes a comprehensive discussion and analysis of 'folk historical linguistics,' which connects with some of the more unconventional views held by professional linguists. Furthermore, the book expands its coverage of language contact, historical sociolinguistics, and language planning, including a lively exploration of contemporary competing views on the genesis and nature of creoles. Additionally, the support material has been updated to include suggestions for essay questions and a greater abundance of supporting examples to enhance the reader's understanding of the phenomena described in the book.

Trasks Historical Linguistics is an indispensable resource for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students of historical linguistics, as well as for any student seeking a solid foundation in the English language. Its comprehensive coverage, engaging writing style, and wealth of examples make it an essential tool for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of language change throughout history.

Weight: 920g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367645595
Edition number: 4 ed