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Inventing English: A Portable History of the Language

Nathaniel Hawthorne

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Inventing English: A Portable History of the Language

by Seth Lerer

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9326 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	354 pages
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The English language is a complex and fascinating one, with a history that stretches back over centuries. In this comprehensive and engaging book, renowned linguist Mario Pei traces the origins of English from its Indo-European roots to its present-day status as a global language.

Pei begins by exploring the Proto-Indo-European language, the common ancestor of most of the languages spoken in Europe today. He then follows the development of English through its various stages, including Old English, Middle English, and Modern English. Along the way, he discusses the major influences that have shaped the language, including the Norman Conquest and the rise of the British Empire.

Inventing English is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of language. Pei's clear and concise writing style makes this book accessible to both scholars and general readers alike. With its wealth of information and insights, Inventing English is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the fascinating story of the English language.

The Indo-European Language
The Germanic Languages
Old English
Middle English
Modern English
The Spread of English
The Future of English

About the Author

Mario Pei (1901-1978) was a renowned linguist and author. He was fluent in over 30 languages and wrote over 50 books on linguistics and language teaching. Pei was a professor at Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley, and he served as president of the Linguistic Society of America.

Reviews

"Pei's book is a classic in the field of linguistics. It is a comprehensive and engaging account of the development of the English language, written by one of the world's leading experts. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of language." - Noam Chomsky

"Inventing English is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the fascinating story of the English language. Pei's clear and concise writing style makes this book accessible to both scholars and general readers alike." - David Crystal