Our language has changed dramatically in the twelve hundred years of its recorded history. We would not recognize speech (Old English) of the first Germanic peoples who migrated to post-Roman Britain in the fifth century; Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (Middle English) might seem to be written in a foreign language; even Shakespeare's (early Modern) English requires special efforts. Our main task will be to understand something of sounds, words and structure of English at each of these earlier periods, but especially we will work to understand why and how a language changes (or doesn't). The major prerequisite is that you come prepared to have fun.

Intended Audience:

Not compatible with Online-only students.

Class Format:

Exams: Asynchronous and Online/In-Person

Lectures: Synchronous and Online/In-Person

Class Discussions: Asynchronous and Online/In-Person