This short chapter outlines a number of important changes taking place in the English language between, roughly, the year 1000 and the year 1200. It also discusses a number of interesting texts.
Study this chapter carefully. Making notes on it would be a good idea.
Written Homework:
1. Make a list, with examples of all the changes in the language that Lerer discusses and gives examples of in this chapter.
2. Pick one of the texts: Group 1, the text on p.43; Group 2, on p.45; Group 3, on p.47; Group 4, on p. 52.; Group 5, the two short texts on 50 and 51; Group 6: the two short texts on pp. 48 and 49.
Look up in the OED all the words that are not fully explained by Lerer in the text. Make sure you can fully explain all of them.
If you find that Lerer explains all of them, then look up three of the less-common or obsolete words in the OED and copy down the meaning and, from the Etymology, the cognates.
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NOTE: As always, remember to bring your text and a printed copy of your HW to class with you.