Essentials of early English : an introduction to Old, Middle and Early Modern English (2nd ed)

This is a completely revised and updated edition of a highly successful textbook. It provides a practical and highly accessible introduction to the early stages of the English language: Old English, Middle English, and Early Modern English.

Designed specifically as a handbook for students beginning the study of early English language, whether for linguistic or literary purposes, it presumes little or no prior knowledge of the history of English. Features of this second edition include:newly added Middle English and Early Modern English sample texts and accompanying notesa new section on historical methodsweb links and an updated annotated bibliography.