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Historical Linguistics provides a comprehensive and clearly written introduction to historical linguistic theory and methods. Since its first publication in 1962 the book has established itself as core reading for students of linguistics. This edition has been thoroughly revised. Drawing on recent linguistic and archaeological research Professor Lehmann incorporates key developments in the field. These include exciting advances in the history and development of writing: and in typological classification which allows better understanding of the structure of early languages. Well-illustrated with Indo-European examples, and supplementary exercises which draw on data from other language families as well, the book will enable students to carry out independent work in historical studies on any language family, as well as up-to-date work in Indo-European.
List of contents
Preface 1. Introduction 2. The Background of Historical Linguistic Study 3. The Use of Written Records 4. Genealogical Classification 5. Typological Classification 6. Linguistic Communities 7. The Comparative Method 8. The Method of Internal Reconstruction 9. Glottochronology 10. Sound Change -- change in phonological systems 11. Morphological Change 12. Syntactic Change 13. Semantic Change and Changes in the Lexicon 14. Interrelationships among Changes 15. Linguistic and Cultural Change 16. Conclusion Bibliography Index
About the author
Winfred P. Lehmann
Summary
A comprehensive, clearly written introduction to historical linguistic theory and methods. Thoroughly revised, this edition draws on recent linguistic and archaeological research, incorporating key developments and advances.
