Language Change -
- Old English - 5th Century
The languages of Britain were Celtic. English developed from Angles, Jutes and Saxons (Anglo-Saxons). Both Anglo-Saxon and Old Norse had a big influence on the English language. Latin was regarded as the language of the upper class and had a big influence from this point onwards.
- Middle English - 11th Century
French was the verbal language while Latin remained in written documents. English came to prominence towards the end of the Middle English period.
- Early Modern English - 15th Century
Caxton introduced the printing press (1476), printing many works in English which helped contribute to the standard form of English. using South East Dialect as the basis for this new standard. Shakespeare produced his work, growing interest and pride in English as a language.
- Modern English - 18th Century
The English language had grown very quickly. Borrowed words from Greek, Latin and around the world. Grammarians studied the grammar of the language which helped them work out correct ways of speaking and writing.
- Present-day English - 20th Century
Influence from the media, technology and travel has helped to develop the English language further and establish it as a global language.
- English = hybrid language (product of the invasions from German tribes, Vikings and Norman French)
- Latin has a big influence also
