Language History, Language Change, and Language Relationship

An Introduction to Historical and Comparative Linguistics

By: Brian D. Joseph, Hans Henrich Hock

Write A Review

Hardcover | 19 August 2009 | Edition Number 2

At a Glance

Hardcover
608 Pages

Edition Type
Revised

Age
22

Grade
17

Dimensions(cm)
23.0 x 15.5 x 3.81

Hardcover

$377.52

or 4 interest-free payments of $94.38 with

Ships in 5 to 7 business days

Why does language change? Why can we speak to and understand our parents but have trouble reading Shakespeare? Why is Chaucer''s English of the fourteenth century so different from Modern English of the late twentieth century that the two are essentially different languages? Why are Americans and English ''one people divided by a common language''? And how can the language of Chaucer and Modern English - or Modern British and American English - still be called the same language? The present book provides answers to questions like these in a straightforward way, aimed at the non-specialist, with ample illustrations from both familiar and more exotic languages.

Most chapters in this new edition have been reworked, with some difficult passages removed, other passages thoroughly rewritten, and several new sections added, e.g. on language and race and on Indian writing systems. Further, the chapter notes and bibliography have all been updated.

The content is engaging, focusing on topics and issues that spark student interest. Its goals are broadly pedagogical and the level and presentation are appropriate for interested beginners with little or no background in linguistics. The language coverage for examples goes well beyond what is usual for books of this kind, with a considerable amount of data from various languages of India.

Industry Reviews

"Hock and Joseph's book is very well planned and, in my opinion, it carries out its didactic purpose to an above-average level." Matteo Tarsi in: https://linguistlist.org/issues/30/30-3136.html (10.03.2020)

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.