Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: History of English
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Aug 9, 2023 Discover the intriguing origins of the English language, from its humble beginnings in Old English to its transformation through historical events, including the Norman Conquest. Explore the Great Vowel Shift, which dramatically reshaped pronunciation and usage. Enjoy playful discussions on the quirks of Old English, like the term 'modjbonk,' while contemplating the quirky role of university mascots. It's a fascinating journey that reveals how English became the rich, global language we know today.
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Old English Origins
- Old English originated after the Romans left Britain, spoken by Germanic tribes.
- These tribes, including the Angles and Saxons, shaped what we now know as Old English.
First English Speakers?
- Hengist and Horsa, potentially legendary figures, are considered the first Old English speakers.
- They were brought in to protect the country when the Germanic tribes arrived.
Norman Invasion's Linguistic Impact
- William the Conqueror introduced French in 1066, creating a linguistic class division.
- Upper classes spoke French, while lower classes continued with Old English, influencing Middle English.