Download or read book Essentials of Early English written by Jeremy J. Smith and published by Routledge. This book was released on 2006-05-19 with total page 265 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This is a completely revised and updated edition of a highly successful textbook. It provides a practical and highly accessible introduction to the early stages of the English language: Old English, Middle English, and Early Modern English. Designed specifically as a handbook for students beginning the study of early English language, whether for linguistic or literary purposes, it presumes little or no prior knowledge of the history of English. Features of this second edition include: newly added Middle English and Early Modern English sample texts and accompanying notes a new section on historical methods web links and an updated annotated bibliography.