Language: Its Nature, Development and Origin by Otto Jespersen

Language: Its Nature, Development and Origin

2024-11-09T23:46:29Z

This edition had all images removed.

Title: Language: Its Nature, Development and Origin

Note: Reading ease score: 53.1 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.

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Summary: "Language: Its Nature, Development and Origin" by Otto Jespersen is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the complexities of language, discussing its historical evolution and its fundamental nature as a human construct. Jespersen aims to provide insights into how languages develop over time and the role of individuals and societies in shaping their use. The opening of the book introduces the foundational concepts of linguistic science, emphasizing the importance of viewing language as a dynamic system that evolves rather than a static entity. Jespersen critiques metaphorical interpretations of language, asserting it is a function of human social activity rather than a living organism. He outlines his approach to studying language development, including insights into how a child learns their mother tongue and the influence of foreign languages and individuals on the evolution of speech. Jespersen highlights historical perspectives and previous linguists' contributions, setting the stage for a thorough exploration of the historical and biological dimensions of language development. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Author: Jespersen, Otto, 1860-1943

EBook No.: 53038

Published: Sep 12, 2016

Downloads: 808

Language: English

Subject: Language and languages

LoCC: Language and Literatures

Category: Text

Rights: Public domain in the USA.