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This bestselling text by Charles Barber, with updating contributions from Joan C. Beal and Philip A. Shaw, recounts the history of the English language from its remote ancestry to the present day. Using dozens of familiar texts, including the English of King Alfred, Shakespeare and Chaucer, the English language is explored in terms of where it came from, where it is going and the global impact it has had, taking into account the many varieties of English that now exist. Stimulating and interesting, it is not only written for specialists on language and linguistics, but also for general readers who take an interest in the subject.

• A simple, straightforward explanation of how today's English came about
• This new edition includes a brand new chapter on late modern English, reflecting a recent surge in interest in the language during this period
• Clear explanations of linguistic ideas and terms make it the ideal introduction for students on courses in English language and linguistics and for all readers fascinated by language