The English language is spoken by over 1.5 billion people around the world. From the time of Beowulf to the modern time, English has transformed a lot. Pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and syntax have changed to much extent. To understand the difference between old English and Modern English we need deep dive into the history. We also need to understand the evolution of the language and culture and the culture that shaped it. In this article, we'll explore the evolution of English from Old English to Modern English.
Old English, also known as Anglo-Saxon. It was spoken in England from 450 AD to the Norman conquest in 1066 AD. This language emerged from the German tribes Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, who migrated to England. These tribes brought their language which blended with old English.
Old English was quite different from Modern English. Both have different vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. In Old English relationships between words and sentences were indicated by changes in word endings rather than word order. For example, the word 'house' in Old English would be used as "hūs" or in some cases "hūses", depending on its role in the sentence.
Old English was heavily influenced by other languages, especially Latin and Norse. Latin was introduced by Christian education and churches. Words like "bishop" (bishop), "mæsse" (mass), and "angel" are examples of Latin.
The Vikings invaded Britain in the 8th and 9th centuries. They brought Old Norse which emerged with Old English. Many Old Norse words were adopted into Old English. Words like Law, Warfare, and family life.