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In this seminar we will trace the changes pronunciation underwent from Indo-European to Modern English. Students will gain a better understanding of the common roots of most European languages, most of all German and English. They may apply their knowledge about sound changes to the study of dialects which tend, generally speaking, to be phonologically more conservative than the standard language. Last but not least a thorough understanding of the development of English pronunciation is vital to explain apparent "inconsistencies" today, such as the seemingly arbitrary spelling of modern English (e.g. for head, heat, hear, heart, heard) or irregular forms (e.g. child/children, keep/kept). A reader with relevant material will be provided at the beginning of the term. |
