Whilst maintaining the accessibility for the beginner, the level of this second edition has been raised by the addition of much more detail, a greater focus on theories and controversies, and a clearer route to key works in the field. History of English : examines the history of the English language in order to explain the English that is used today introduces key linguistic concepts   provides 'discussion points' to generate debate   involves readers in collecting and analyzing their own data  contains a 'mini-corpus' of texts, used for exercises and to illustrate points raised in the commentary. Revised throughout, this updated edition contains a new internet resource section and an updated further reading section, to help readers take their study further.