English in the World: History, Diversity, Changeexamines the English

language as it has developed through history and is used across the globe

today. The first half of the book outlines the history of the language from

its fifth-century roots through its development as a national, a colonial,

and now a global language. In the second half, the focus shifts to the

diversity of the language today.

The book explores varieties of English across the English-speaking

world, as well as English-related varieties such as pidgins and creoles. It

also examines complex processes of variation, hybridity and change in

English, and in the shifting styles of individual speakers. Throughout, the

focus is on the international nature of English and its use alongside other

languages in a diverse range of communities.

Drawing on the latest research and The Open University's wide experience

of writing accessible and innovative texts, this book:

-- explains basic concepts and assumes no previous study of English or

linguistics

-- contains a range of source material and commissioned readings to

supplement chapters

-- includes contributions from leading experts in their fields including Joan

Beal, Suresh Canagarajah, David Crystal, Jonathan Hope, Kay McCormick,

Miriam Meyerhoff, Rajend Mesthrie, Robert Podesva and Jennifer Smith

-- has a truly international scope, encompassing examples and case

studies from the UK and North America, Australia and New Zealand,

Europe, Asia, and Africa

-- is illustrated in full colour to bring the fascinating study of the English

language alive

-- includes a comprehensive index as well as useful appendices showing

the historical timeline of English and a brief introduction to the

description of linguistic features.

English in th