Author Description

Language Reform has been a key area of debate in linguistics since the C17th and scholars have tried to direct language change in many ways. The first volume reprints essays on artificial languages, and includes the Royal Society's attempt to devise a philosophical language, through to the international language Esperanto, and recent computer languages. Language is constantly evolving, and yet educators at each point in language's history have tried to prescribe the correct use and grammar of English. The second volume reprints primary sources prescribing 'correct' grammar, and critical commentary upon these. This debate is still current, as testified by the success of Eats, Shoots and Leaves. Volume three looks at spelling reform, and attempts through history to simplify English spelling. Articles concerning Johnson's first dictionary of 1755, and Webster's 1828 dictionary of American spelling, are reprinted here, alongside new chapters looking at the future of English spelling. The final volume examines attempts to change or regulate language to political ends. This includes the role of language bodies to protect languages against the growth of English, decisions to choose national languages at the expense of others, and policies to revive moribund languages. This fascinating set presents a comprehensive survey of language reform. Each volume includes a detailed introduction by the editor, reprinted primary material, specially commissioned chapters by international scholars, a chronological table, cross-references, and detailed indices. It will be an essential reference resource for students and academics in history of linguistics.