Middle English

Definition

Middle English is the stage of the English language spoken and written from roughly the late 12th century to the late 15th century. It represents a significant evolution from Old English, influenced by Norman French and Latin, and set the stage for the development of Modern English, characterized by changes in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Middle English emerged after the Norman Conquest in 1066, which introduced a significant number of Norman French words into the English vocabulary.
2. This period saw a decline in inflectional endings, leading to a more analytical structure in English grammar.
3. Literature in Middle English flourished with writers like Chaucer, who helped legitimize its use in literary contexts, moving away from Latin and French.
4. Regional dialects played a crucial role during this time, leading to variations in vocabulary and pronunciation across England.
5. By the late 15th century, Middle English began transitioning into Modern English due to factors like the invention of the printing press and increased literacy.

Review Questions

• How did the Norman Conquest influence the development of Middle English?
  • The Norman Conquest in 1066 had a profound impact on Middle English as it introduced a vast number of Norman French words into the language. This event marked a shift in vocabulary as many words related to law, art, and culture came from French, significantly enriching Middle English. Additionally, this fusion of languages led to changes in syntax and grammar, paving the way for the transition from Old English to Middle English.
• Discuss how regional dialects contributed to the diversity within Middle English literature.
  • Regional dialects were prominent during the Middle English period, with different areas of England developing unique linguistic features. This diversity meant that literature could be influenced by local vernaculars, leading to varied expressions and styles in writing. Writers like Chaucer utilized these dialects in their works, showcasing how local speech patterns shaped literature while also promoting a sense of cultural identity among different regions.
• Evaluate the significance of Geoffrey Chaucer's contributions to Middle English and its transition to Modern English.
  • Geoffrey Chaucer's contributions were pivotal in establishing Middle English as a legitimate literary language. His works, particularly 'The Canterbury Tales,' demonstrated that Middle English could convey complex themes and narratives effectively. Chaucer's use of diverse dialects and innovative storytelling helped bridge the gap between Middle and Modern English, promoting literacy and encouraging future writers to explore vernacular language, ultimately aiding in its evolution into Modern English.

Related terms

Old English: The earliest form of the English language, spoken from around the 5th to the 12th century, characterized by a Germanic vocabulary and complex inflectional grammar.

Modern English: The stage of the English language that began around the late 15th century and continues to the present day, marked by a simplified grammatical structure and an expanded vocabulary.

Chaucer: Geoffrey Chaucer was a prominent poet of the Middle English period, best known for 'The Canterbury Tales,' which showcases the use of Middle English and its literary potential.