The the story of English is often presented as one of progress - from a set of Germanic dialects to a fully-fledged national and international language. However, the emphasis in this book is on the diversity of English throughout its history and the changing social meanings to different varieties of English. Topics include: the history of English, from Old English to the present day; the development of English as a world language; grammar, accents, style shifting and codeswitching; and the notion of good and bad English. The text includes contributions from Nik Coupland, David Graddol, Paul...

This fully updated edition of Redesigning English explores the innovative uses of English from early manuscripts to post-colonial literature, creative writing and developments in new media. Focusing on how English has, and continues to evolve through its global status, there is a strong emphasis on the visual forms of language and communication, and on issues of identity and politics.

New chapters for this edition include:

• what makes English into Art?
• a tongue for sighing
• English manuscripts: the emergence of a visual identity
...

Does the language we speak create and sustain a sexist culture? This controversial and exciting proposal has fascinated feminists, psychologists and linguists alike for well over a decade. The authors of Gender Voices explore in a clear and comprehensive manner the idea that language shapes individual lives-that through our speech we all help recreate gender divisions in society.

Their introductory chapter establishes the relationship between language and social structure. Chapter 2 explores the human voice and traditional notions of 'femininity', 'masculinity' and sexuality....