ENG3701
History and spread of English
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2024
Unique number : 595620
Due date : 28 March 2024
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Assignment One
Read the questions below and answer the questions set. Please ensure that you engage with
your prescribed text and resources when you construct your answers.
1. "How has the English language evolved over time, from its roots in Old English to its
current form, and what factors have influenced its development?" Your response should be
approximately 1 page. (25)
2. There is a commonly held view that there is only one English language. With reference
to Kachru's (1985) Three Concentric Circles, write a response of about 300 words discussing
whether you agree or disagree with the view. (15)
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NAME: Student Number
, 1.
The evolution of the English language from its roots in Old English to its current
form has been a dynamic process shaped by various factors. Old English,
spoken from around the 5th to the 11th century, was heavily influenced by
Germanic languages due to the Anglo-Saxon invasions. It was characterized
by complex inflections, grammatical gender, and a vocabulary primarily rooted
in agriculture, everyday life, and basic social interactions.
The Norman Conquest of 1066 marked a significant turning point, introducing
French influences into English. This led to a period known as Middle English,
where French loanwords enriched the language, particularly in domains like
law, government, and culture. Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales"
exemplifies this transitional phase, showcasing a blend of Old English and
French vocabulary.
The Renaissance era saw a resurgence of interest in classical languages,
leading to the adoption of Latin and Greek roots into English vocabulary. This
period also witnessed the standardization of English spelling and grammar,
thanks in part to the efforts of scholars like William Shakespeare and the
publication of the King James Bible.
The Industrial Revolution and British colonial expansion further expanded
English's lexicon, incorporating words from various languages spoken in
colonies worldwide. Additionally, technological advancements in
communication and transportation facilitated linguistic exchange, contributing
to English's global spread and the emergence of regional dialects and creoles.
In the modern era, the dominance of English as a global lingua franca,
particularly in science, technology, and international diplomacy, has continued
to shape its evolution. The internet age has accelerated linguistic change, with
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NAME: Student Number
