How has the English language changed over time?
Over time the English language has developed through three main stages; Old English, Middle English and Modern English. Old English is the earliest recorded stage of the English language and is very different to Modern English which we speak today. Native English speakers would find it very difficult trying to understand Old and Middle English.
One of the main influences in the change of the English language is invasion. During the 5th century the Angles, the Saxons and the Jutes invaded Britain which all spoke similar languages, resulting in the Old English language. Before the invasion people in Britain spoke a Celtic language. These people travelled north and west when the invaders arrived.
Then in 1066 William the Conqueror and the Normans, conquered England bringing a form of French language with them. This became the language of the Royal Court and generally the upper classes spoke French whilst the lower classes spoke English. This class division continued on until the 14th century when English became the main language once again. However the English language had been slightly adapted. The recent invasion and conquering gave a French influence and some French words had been added to the English language, therefore creating Middle English.
Americanisms are terms or phrases that were original British Shakespearean terms which now are not common phrases in Britain but are still part of the language in America. An example of this is fall for autumn. Spanish has also influenced American English when they settled in the west. This therefore also influenced and changed British English. Due to Americas worldwide power a lot of English words are used in technology, music, television and cinema which is used all over the world.
Another main cause to the English language changing over the years is down to technology. Due to a mass illiteracy Old and Middle English was a solely spoken language and was learnt by ear and through festivals. There was a lack of
One of the main influences in the change of the English language is invasion. During the 5th century the Angles, the Saxons and the Jutes invaded Britain which all spoke similar languages, resulting in the Old English language. Before the invasion people in Britain spoke a Celtic language. These people travelled north and west when the invaders arrived.
Then in 1066 William the Conqueror and the Normans, conquered England bringing a form of French language with them. This became the language of the Royal Court and generally the upper classes spoke French whilst the lower classes spoke English. This class division continued on until the 14th century when English became the main language once again. However the English language had been slightly adapted. The recent invasion and conquering gave a French influence and some French words had been added to the English language, therefore creating Middle English.
Americanisms are terms or phrases that were original British Shakespearean terms which now are not common phrases in Britain but are still part of the language in America. An example of this is fall for autumn. Spanish has also influenced American English when they settled in the west. This therefore also influenced and changed British English. Due to Americas worldwide power a lot of English words are used in technology, music, television and cinema which is used all over the world.
Another main cause to the English language changing over the years is down to technology. Due to a mass illiteracy Old and Middle English was a solely spoken language and was learnt by ear and through festivals. There was a lack of