Myddle Englyshe Sir Gawain and e Grene Kny

Myddle Englyshe Sir Gawain and þe Grene Kny 3 t

Origins of Middle English § French and Scandinavian influences § One of the five major languages spoken in Europe during 11 th and 15 th centuries. § A widely varied language § Four dialects: Northern, Midland, Southern, Kentish

Origins Continued § Though Anglo-Norman French eventually replaced it in the upper class, it remained the language of the people. § During the 15 th century, a more modern form of English, known then as Chancery Standard, became widespread, aided by the printing press.

Symbols § Þ (Thorn) § Pronounced “th” § 3 § Pronounced “y” or “gh”

Pronunciation Rules (Consonants) § Pronounce all of them § Say gh with lots of breath, like the ch in German ich § Say the l before an f and the w before an r § Roll R's § Always pronounce s's as in hiss, not as a z

Pronunciation Rules (Vowels) § The ending -ion or -ioun is always said with two syllables, never like shun § “Au” and “aw” pronounced like “ow” in “how” § “Oo” has long “o” sound like in “boat” § “Ow” and “ou” have “oo” sound like in “boot”

Works Cited § “Middle English. ” 7 April 2007. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 17 April 2007. <http: //en. wikipedia. org/wiki/ Middle_english> Middle English Pronunciation Guide. ” 17 April 2007. <http: //webpages. marshall. edu/~will 2/ chaucer. html>