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First published in 1939, English Speech from an Historical Point of View presents the history of the English language under three major components: Old English, Middle English and Modern English. Each of these divisions, with the partial exception of Modern English, treats English with regard to phonology, morphology and syntax.

The author argues that it has not always been found practical to stick exclusively to the 3 periods in dealing with some phenomenon which may have had its full development within one particular period, while it had its origin or faded away in another. Particular regard has been had to Shakespearean English. Otherwise, a selection has been made of Middle English (and Old English) texts which are most representative. This is an important historical work for students of English language.