This lecture will explore variation and standardization in British English across time. It will trace linguistic, sociolinguistic and sociohistorical developments from the beginnings to the present day. Unlike most historical accounts of the English language it will give particular attention to dialects and the development of sociolects, considering them in relation to the development of the standard variety. In so doing, the lecture will also elucidate the concept of standardization and throw light on the sociolinguistic significance of the standard variety. Special topics in the discussion of the present-day period will include Multicultural London English and language attitudes.

Kurs im HIS-LSF