Early Modern English Lexicon: Humanism, Inkhorn Words, Vernacularization, Borrowing (HEL 31)

Summary

This video explores the dynamic evolution of the English language during the Renaissance, highlighting the remarkable creativity and freedom of word formation. The speaker discusses notable figures like Shakespeare, who contributed numerous words, and the role of Samuel Johnson's dictionary in standardizing grammar, which marked the end of this linguistic liberation. Through engaging insights, the video encourages viewers to appreciate the richness of language and the historical context behind its development, inviting questions and further discussion on this fascinating topic.

Takeaways

• 😀 The early modern period was marked by a remarkable linguistic freedom, allowing for the invention of many new words.
• 📖 Shakespeare is often credited with introducing numerous words into the English language, but he was not the only one contributing to this evolution.
• 🔍 The concept of 'first attestation' highlights that many authors were experimenting with language during the same era as Shakespeare.
• ✨ The linguistic creativity of this period fostered an environment where authors could freely create and innovate with language.
• 📜 The publication of Samuel Johnson's dictionary in the 18th century marked a significant shift toward standardization in language use.
• ⚖️ After the dictionary's publication, there were stricter rules governing grammar and word usage, limiting spontaneous linguistic creativity.
• 🔗 The speaker references Thomas Wilson, illustrating the broader context of language experimentation during this time.
• 🎭 The speaker expresses enthusiasm for the topic, indicating the inherent interest in the evolution of language and literature.
• ❓ The invitation for questions suggests an openness to engage further on the subject matter.
• 📚 The discussion emphasizes how historical contexts shape the development of language and literary expression.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is the evolution of the English language during the early modern period, focusing on the creation of new words and the impact of linguistic freedom.

Why is Shakespeare often credited with many English words?

Shakespeare is often credited with many English words because he introduced numerous terms in his works, many of which were recorded for the first time in his plays and poems.

What does the speaker mean by 'linguistic freedom'?

Linguistic freedom refers to the period in which individuals were free to create and use new words without strict grammatical rules or restrictions.

Who is Samuel Johnson and what was his contribution to the English language?

Samuel Johnson was a lexicographer who published a dictionary in the 18th century, which began to standardize the English language and limited the freedom to invent new words.

How did the publication of dictionaries affect language creativity?

The publication of dictionaries, like Johnson's, formalized the rules of language, which curtailed the spontaneous creation of new words that characterized the earlier period.

What historical period does the speaker refer to when discussing linguistic innovation?

The speaker refers to the early modern period of the English Renaissance as the time of significant linguistic innovation and creativity.

What role did individuals play in the evolution of the English language during this period?

Individuals played a crucial role by constantly creating and introducing new words, contributing to the richness and diversity of the English language.

What example does the speaker give of a person who discussed language innovation?

The speaker mentions Thomas Wilson, who explained the spontaneous creation of words during this linguistic period.

What does the speaker hope to achieve by sharing this material?

The speaker hopes to engage the audience's interest in the topic and encourages them to ask questions for further discussion.

What does the speaker imply about the transition from the early modern period to the 18th century?

The speaker implies that the transition marked the end of an era of linguistic creativity, as standardization took precedence over innovation in language.