A Historical Syntax of English

This book offers an in-depth exploration of English syntax, catering to intermediate and advanced students. It balances theoretical insights with accessibility, addressing both internal and external factors influencing syntactic changes.

A Historical Syntax of English offers a comprehensive exploration of the key areas within English language study, specifically aimed at intermediate and advanced students. The book assumes that readers have a foundational understanding of the subject, allowing for a deeper dive into the intricacies of English linguistics. It covers various approaches to understanding the significant developments in English syntax, focusing on essential interpretative issues that are crucial for students engaged in this field.

The author, Los, presents a balanced examination of both formal and functional methodologies, emphasizing how syntactic changes arise from a complex interplay of external and internal factors. External influences may include sociolinguistic elements such as language or dialect contact, while internal factors might involve changes like the loss of morphology or the impact of analogy. This dual perspective helps students appreciate the multifaceted nature of language evolution and the various forces that shape syntax over time.

Importantly, the text does not require prior knowledge of Old or Middle English or formal syntax, making it accessible to a broader audience. However, it does expect familiarity with traditional syntactic concepts, such as verbs, nouns, subjects, and objects, as well as a general understanding of linguistic ideas like morphology and case. By striking a balance between theoretical insights and practical accessibility, A Historical Syntax of English serves as a valuable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of English syntax and its historical development.