Assuming no previous linguistic knowledge or familiarity with Middle English, Simon Horobin introduces students to Chaucer's language and the importance of reading Chaucer in the original, rather than in a modern translation.

Chaucer's Language leads the reader gently through basic linguistic concepts with appropriate explanation, highlighting how Chaucer's English differs from present-day English, and the significance of this for interpreting and understanding his work. It provides close analysis and comparison with the writings of Chaucer's contemporaries to show how Chaucer drew on the variety of Middle English to achieve particular poetic effects. Annotated texts, an extensive glossary of linguistic terms, common Middle English words and 'false friends', a bibliography and suggestions for further reading all support students and aid study.

This 3rd edition has been fully revised throughout and includes:
- a new chapter on using digital images to study Chaucer's texts
- references to a greater range of recent editions and translations
- updated examples and insights from the most recent scholarship on rhetoric, punning, word studies, Middle English dialectology and new approaches to the history of standardisation.

Authoritative and easy to follow, this is an indispensable guide to understanding, appreciating and enjoying the language of Chaucer.

Introduces students to Chaucer's language and the importance of reading Chaucer in the original, rather than in a modern translation.

About the Author
Simon Horobin is Professor of English Language and Literature at Oxford University, UK and a Fellow of Magdalen College, Oxford University, UK.

Reviews
Horobin's newly updated Chaucer's Language continues to show twenty-first century readers the intricate ways Middle English creates meaning. And by introducing those readers to the newest digital resources, Horobin prepares readers to discover for themselves the richness awaiting them in Chaucer's prose and verse. * Candace Barrington, Professor of English, Central Connecticut State University, USA *
No one knows more about Chaucer's Language and its place in the History of the English Language than Simon Horobin. His writing is lucid, his explanations compelling, and his tone is always that of the enthusiastic teacher, sharing the pleasures of English in all its variety. Whether explaining the history of spelling, the habits of medieval scribes, or the riches of vocabulary, Horobin always makes old words come alive. * Seth Lerer, Professor of Literature Emeritus, University of California, USA *
This edition includes additional introductory content on vocabulary and grammar to enhance students' sensitivity to Chaucer's language. It also introduces new linguistic theoretical research and explores new possibilities for using digital data to examine his manuscripts and printed texts. It is a valuable resource for all researchers of his language. * Hideshi Ohno, Professor, Hiroshima University, Japan *



Book Information
ISBN 9781350473782
Author Simon Horobin
Format Paperback
Page Count 232
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 363g
Dimensions(mm) 232mm * 156mm * 22mm