Traces the development of the English language from the dialects of Old English, through Middle and early modern English to the establishment of standard English in the 18th century, with a postscript on the language today. The core of this book is a series of illustrative texts and facsimilies, with descriptive analyses and assignments for students. The text includes chronicles, letters, diaries, literary extracts and contemporary descriptions of the language at different periods. The focus of study is on variation and change in vocabulary and meaning. Other books by this author include "Varieties of English" and "A Course Book in English Grammar".