<i>Grammar and Grammarians in the Early Middle Ages</i> (review)
Toby Burrows
Reviews 267 Law, Vivien, Grammar and Grammarians in the Early Middle Ages (Longman Linguistic Library), London N e w York, Longman, 1997; paper; pp. xiv, 305; R.R.P. AUS$60.95. In linguistic history of Western Europe, period between about 600 1100 a s one crucial importance. Put simply, it characterised by shift from Latin as native language to foreign language. This initially case for speakers Old English, High German, other Germanic Celtic languages h o were absorbed into Christian world fifth century onwards. By ninth century, disappearing spoken even former heartlands R m n Empire—Italy, France, Spain. A d yet resources teaching which inherited later years E p i r — particularly k D t u Priscian their contemporaries—were aimed at advanced learners, Greek speakers. early Ages, therefore, necessary develop y grammar, reworking these earlier texts elementary works very different kind audience. Initially created Insular writers Ireland England, this v spread continent Carolingian period. It is grammar with Vivien L concerned. Rather than taking its value interest granted, however, she begins examining reasons studying such subject. The medieval grammars are evidence various trends: transmission classical texts, development culture education, Latinity. T manuscripts themselves also important physical entities. But, above all, valuable source linguistics. Because they combine an account word- 268 forms introduction basic concepts, might be considered—as suggests—the remote ancestors today's 'teach yourself guides. From grammarians revived study syntax began speculate again on relationship thought. As Law points out, there still much work done surviving themselves, anonymous. firm chronological framework can only given dated manuscripts, devotes several pages methods criteria assessing dating unattributed works. All but two chapters book previously published articles 1982 1994, though them have been rewritten or expanded. They accompanied extensive up-to-date bibliography. Despite origins, papers well cover main themes subject period, good mixture general specific, including case-studies Boniface, Aelfric, extraordinary Virgilius Maro Grammaticus. significant omission any detailed look Irish authors, covered fully Law's book, (Boydell, 1982). focus c authors British Isles; continental tend considered more terms context provided colleagues. arrangement chapters, loosely chronological, not entirely convincing; 4 13, particular, seem wrongly placed. list would useful addition. technical specialised nature subject, writes clearly enthusiastically, bringing within reach linguist medievalist alike. She handles detail firmly confidently, never allows overwhelm 269 clarity exposition. treated with...
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