This course is an introduction to the study of change in language over time. It examines processes of change at all linguistic levels: vocabulary, meaning, sounds and grammar. The growth and development of the English language from the 5th century until the present day will form the background for the course. Examples may also be drawn from other languages.

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Demonstrate a fair knowledge of the main lines of development of written English from approximately 500 AD to modern times; 2. Describe the most important changes in the fields of phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics; 3. Describe the basic structure of Old English, Middle English and Early Modern English grammar.