Description

In this lively and engaging textbook, Rob Penhallurick introduces readers to the diversity and history of the English language, and to relevant contemporary and classic work in linguistics. Organised into eighteen thematic chapters, each of which can be read in one sitting, it covers topics such as the effects of dialect and accent on identity, swearing and offensive names in English, language and gender, language planning and theories about the origin of language. Chapters are full of entertaining examples, illustrations and suggestions for further reading.

About the Author

Praise For…

"Very clear, and well done. Rob Penhallurick's discussion of work I am familiar with seemed to me very accurate, a lucid introduction to leading ideas in these areas of the study of language." - Professor Noam Chomsky, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"The first edition was an excellent volume. Now, in this extensive second edition, Professor Penhallurick engages with the full field of studying English language and linguistics, offering guidance on a range of complex material while never losing sight of the everyday experience of language, its history and its fascination." —Martin Coyle, Cardiff University

Praise for the first edition:

"Penhallurick effortlessly weaves anecdotes and examples from popular culture, philosophy, psychology and literature into his discussion of the English language and language in general [….].  An engaging and enjoyable read for bright first-year students who need a broad overview of the insights linguistics can offer." —Heather Murray, Department of Applied Linguistics, University of Bern