The History of English Podcast

Explore the evolution of vulgar language, the influence of French poets, and the origins of taboo words in medieval literature. Delve into the connections between fireplaces and obscenity, the evolution of the word 'quaint', and the controversial nature of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.

Allan Metcalf, author of 'The Life of Guy: Guy Fawkes, the Gunpowder Plot, and the Unlikely History of an Indispensable Word', discusses the origins and history of the word 'guy', its association with Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot, the celebration of Guy Fawkes Day, and the evolution of the term 'guy' from a negative character to a generic term for any male. The episode also touches on the decline of 'y'all' in American English and the emergence of 'you guys' as a commonly used term.

Explore the diverse characters in Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, their regional differences and social hierarchies. Analyze the knight's noble qualities and reputation. Discover the evolution of the word 'very' and Chaucer's use of language to convey social status. Uncover the influence of French loanwords and the rise of the middle class in London. Discuss the connections between the Parson, the Plowman, and the influence of Piers Plowman on their characters.

Discover the background and opening passages of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, delve into Chaucer's political involvement and retirement, explore the pronunciation variations of Middle English, uncover the etymology of the word 'courage', and dissect the significance of the famous opening passage and introduction of pilgrims

This podcast explores the changes in English grammar and syntax during the Middle English period, with a focus on how it is reflected in Geoffrey Chaucer's writings. It also discusses Chaucer's Italian influence, the evolution of possessives in Middle English, Chaucer's reflections on fame and gossip, the evolution of a word from 'pimp' to encourager, and the relationship between Chaucer's 'The Legend of Good Women' and John Gower's 'Confessio Amantis'.

Explore the history of the first English Bible by John Wycliffe and its impact on the English language. Learn about the fascinating connection between a Latin song and a Christmas carol. Discover the controversial relationship between the Church and the English population, and the divisions within the Catholic Church that led to a great schism. Uncover John Wickliffe's criticism and views, and the influence and crackdown of the Wycliffe Bible.

Explore the significance of the poem Piers Plowman during the peasant revolt in 14th century England. Discover how the upper classes tried to control the newly wealthy peasants. Delve into the different versions and criticism of the poem, as well as the origins and evolution of derogatory terms. Learn about the repentance of Sloth, the introduction of Robin Hood, and the origins and stigma surrounding the term 'cockney'. Lastly, examine the rejection of the pardon and the appeal of the poem to the lower classes.

Explore the shift from animal hides to paper by scribes in the 1300s. Discover the origins and meanings of 'text' and its connection to weaving. Learn about the evolution of 'carte blanche' and its influence on words like 'blank' and 'cartridge'. Delve into the origins of 'library', 'paper', and 'watermark'. Uncover the role of rag collectors and the spread of paper mills. Understand the impact of paper on the printing revolution and the challenges in its supply.

Explore the impact of archery and games on the English language in the Middle Ages. Discover the origins of the word 'handicap' and the evolution of backgammon. Learn about Chaucer's early life and his involvement in the King's service. Delve into the political complexities of the dispute over the throne of Castile. Experience a vivid dream in a transformed room and the connection between losing a game of chess and losing a lover.

In the years immediately following the Black Death, a labor shortage in the countryside led to the rise of yeomen and other rural laborers. The rise of these English-speaking classes led to corresponding rise in the prestige of English. The ascendency of English culminated with the Statute of Pleading which made English the official language of the government for the first time since the Norman Conquest. TRANSCRIPT: EPISODE 121