Chaucer's Language

Simon Horobin (Magdalen College, University of Oxford, UK)

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English

Bloomsbury Academic
13 November 2025

Historical & comparative linguistics

Assuming no previous linguistic knowledge or familiarity with Middle English, Simon Horobin introduces students to Chaucer's language and the importance of reading Chaucer in the original, rather than in a modern translation.

Chaucer's Language leads the reader gently through basic linguistic concepts with appropriate explanation, highlighting how Chaucer's English differs from present-day English, and the significance of this for interpreting and understanding his work. It provides close analysis and comparison with the writings of Chaucer's contemporaries to show how Chaucer drew on the variety of Middle English to achieve particular poetic effects. Annotated texts, an extensive glossary of linguistic terms, common Middle English words and 'false friends', a bibliography and suggestions for further reading all support students and aid study.

This 3rd edition has been fully revised throughout and includes: - a new chapter on using digital images to study Chaucer’s texts

- references to a greater range of recent editions and translations - updated examples and insights from the most recent scholarship on rhetoric, punning, word studies, Middle English dialectology and new approaches to the history of standardisation.

Authoritative and easy to follow, this is an indispensable guide to understanding, appreciating and enjoying the language of Chaucer.

By: Simon Horobin (Magdalen College University of Oxford UK)
Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Edition: 3rd edition
Dimensions: Height: 232mm, Width: 156mm, Spine: 22mm
Weight: 363g
ISBN: 9781350473782
ISBN 10: 1350473782
Pages: 232
Publication Date: 13 November 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Simon Horobin is Professor of English Language and Literature at Oxford University, UK and a Fellow of Magdalen College, Oxford University, UK.

Reviews for Chaucer's Language

Horobin’s newly updated Chaucer’s Language continues to show twenty-first century readers the intricate ways Middle English creates meaning. And by introducing those readers to the newest digital resources, Horobin prepares readers to discover for themselves the richness awaiting them in Chaucer’s prose and verse. * Candace Barrington, Professor of English, Central Connecticut State University, USA *