History of the English language: Early history (Fall 2022, Fall 2023)

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This course surveys the language, history, and culture of Early Medieval England, starting with its origins in Indo-European. By comparing prehistoric changes from Indo-European to Germanic, we discuss the principles, causes, and mechanisms of language change which have affected all aspects of Old English, from its sound system (phonology) to its vocabulary (lexis) and endings (morphology), to its grammar (syntax), and to its meaning (semantics). We examine in detail the impact of various historical events on the early history of the English language, considering various kinds of evidence (archeological, literary, linguistic, and historiographical). Knowledge from this course will give you a toolkit to explain many of the seemingly "irregular" aspects of Present Day English.

History of the English language: Late history (Spring 2023, Spring 2024)

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This course surveys the major developments in the English language from the Norman Conquest (Middle English, 1100-1500) to the present (21st century), addressing changes in pronunciation (phonology), vocabulary (lexis), grammar (morphology and syntax), and meaning (semantics). Language-internal (e.g., sound change) and language-external factors (e.g., language contact with the Normans) are discussed in detail. In the second half of the course we discuss themes such as spelling reform, prescriptivism, nationalism, and identity in the context of World and Global Englishes. This course provides students with a toolkit for explaining many of the peculiarities of Present Day English through knowledge of its history.

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Challenging language myths (Spring 2023, Spring 2024)

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This course explores a range of commonly held beliefs and misconceptions about language. Various language-related claims are discussed in relation to the brain and cognition, learning and acquisition, society and use, and change and evolution. The course discusses the principles of academic and scientific inquiry, as students identify, challenge, and explore their own language-related claims and myths.

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