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English – One Tongue, Many Voices

The evolution and future of a global language

Jan Svartvik author Geoffrey Leech author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Palgrave Macmillan

Published:25th Jul '16

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English – One Tongue, Many Voices cover

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the English language's evolution, diversity, and future challenges, making it a valuable resource for language enthusiasts.

The fully revised and expanded second edition of English – One Tongue, Many Voices is a collaborative work by three renowned scholars in the field of English language studies. This book explores the remarkable journey of the English language, tracing its evolution from a collection of dialects spoken by illiterate tribes over 1500 years ago to its current status as a global lingua franca. Through engaging narratives and thorough research, the authors provide insights into how geographical, social, and cultural factors have shaped English into a diverse and multifaceted language.

In English – One Tongue, Many Voices, the chapters delve into the historical context of English, highlighting key events and influences that contributed to its development. The authors discuss the language's spread across continents and its adaptation to various cultures, demonstrating how this has led to an unprecedented range of dialects and varieties. They also address the contemporary state of English, considering its role in global communication and the challenges it faces in the digital age.

The book concludes with a thoughtful examination of the future of English, contemplating the ongoing pressures and uncertainties that may affect its evolution. Despite the rich variety of English, the authors assert that it remains a singular language, unified by its shared history and common roots. This comprehensive exploration makes English – One Tongue, Many Voices an essential read for anyone interested in the complexities of language and its impact on society.

                                   

ISBN: 9781137550224

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

301 pages

2nd ed. 2016