611 Introduction to Historical Linguistics U G 5
Prereq: 601 and 603.01, or background in phonology with permission of instructor
Introduction to the methods and principles of historical linguistics.
Course requirements include several homework papers, exams, other written assignments, and the reading of numerous important articles (bibliography to be provided) as well as the textbooks.
The purpose of the course is to introduce the student to the general principles involved in language change, the processes which trigger change in language and bring on the spread of change, and the methods linguists use to determine, describe, and account for language change. The emphasis is on changes in sound systems (hence the phonology prerequisite) because much of the early important work in historical linguistics focused on sound change; however, changes in all components of the linguistic system are documented and discussed. In addition, the importance of language change for theoretical concerns in linguistics is given some attention.
Offered 2007-2008:
Offered 2008-2009 (projected):
Last modified 2001-04-02
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