|
Varieties of Modern English: an
introduction Diane Davies |
|
The 'story' of English is
continually re-told and rewritten, as more and more people use the language and
have a part in shaping the way it develops. Varieties of Modern English provides a critical introduction
to the study of regional, social, gendered, context- and medium-related
varieties of the language, and explores some of the debates concerning the
role and impact of English in different parts of the
word today. |
|
Beginning by outlining the main
types of variation in language, the book focuses on the link between language
or dialect and the construction of both group and individual identities.
Issues of identity are crucial to chapters on the roots of Modern English, on
gender and English, on ethnicity and English and on English as an
international language. As well as looking at a range of 'users' of the
language, Davies also explores many of its 'uses' and modes, including the
English of literary texts, advertising, newspaper reporting and commentary,
political speeches, email and text messaging Written in a discursive
,student-friendly style, the book also provides: ·
A rich mix of illustrate material ·
End-of-chapter Activities and related Comments
at the end of the book ·
Suggestions for further reading Varieties of Modern English provides a thought-provoking
overview of its subject and will be invaluable reading for students of
English Language and Linguistics. Diane Davies is a Lecturer in Applied
Linguistics and TESOL in the School of Education at the University of
Leicester. |