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The Wordhord: Daily Life in Old English

Name: The Wordhord: Daily Life in Old English
Price: 14.95 USD
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Rating: 4.6 (397 reviews)

4.6 of 5 Stars: History & Criticism - The Wordhord: Daily Life in Old English

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Book Synopsis: An entertaining and illuminating collection of weird, wonderful, and downright baffling words from the origins of English—and what they reveal about the lives of the earliest English speakers.

Old English is the language you think you know until you actually hear or see it. Unlike Shakespearean English or even Chaucer’s Middle English, Old English—the language of Beowulf—defies comprehension by untrained modern readers. Used throughout much of Britain more than a thousand years ago, it is rich with words that haven’t changed (like word), others that are unrecognizable (such as neorxnawang, or paradise), and some that are mystifying even in translation (gafol-fisc, or tax-fish).

In this delightful book, Hana Videen gathers a glorious trove of these gems and uses them to illuminate the lives of the earliest English speakers. We discover a world where choking on a bit of bread might prove your guilt, where fiend-ship was as likely as friendship, and where you might grow up to be a laughter-smith.

The Wordhord takes readers on a journey through Old English words and customs related to practical daily activities (eating, drinking, learning, working); relationships and entertainment; health and the body, mind, and soul; the natural world (animals, plants, and weather); locations and travel (the source of some of the most evocative words in Old English); mortality, religion, and fate; and the imagination and storytelling. Each chapter ends with its own “wordhord”—a list of its Old English terms, with definitions and pronunciations.

Entertaining and enlightening, The Wordhord reveals the magical roots of the language you’re reading right now: you’ll never look at—or speak—English in the same way again.

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Discover the fascinating world of Old English with The Wordhord: Daily Life in Old English. This captivating book takes you on a journey through the origins of the English language and reveals the intriguing lives of its earliest speakers. Unlike anything you've ever encountered, Old English is a treasure trove of words that will leave you spellbound.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Old English as you explore everyday activities, from eating and drinking to learning and working. Unearth the wonders of friendships and relationships, where the line between fiend-ship and friendship was often blurred. Gain insight into the peculiarities of the era, where grown-ups aspired to be laughter-smiths.

The Wordhord goes beyond mere words and introduces you to the culture and customs of the time. Discover the natural world through the eyes of early English speakers, from the majestic animals to the unpredictable weather. Experience the thrill of exploration as you delve into the words used to describe locations and travel, transporting yourself back in time.

Delve even deeper into the human experience as The Wordhord explores mortality, religion, and fate. Unearth the roots of storytelling and imagination, as Old English words paint vivid pictures of fantastic tales. Each chapter is accompanied by a comprehensive "wordhord" that breaks down and defines the unique Old English terms, allowing you to fully grasp the complexity and beauty of the language.

Prepare to be entertained and enlightened by The Wordhord. Whether you have a passion for history, language, or simply love exploring new worlds, this book will leave an indelible mark on your perception of the English language. Step into the enchanting world of Old English by getting your copy now.

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