A Middle English Vocabulary, Designed for use with Sisam's Fourteenth Century Verse & Prose
"A Middle English Vocabulary" by J.R.R. Tolkien is a scholarly educational work written in the early 20th century. The volume serves as a glossary designed to assist readers in understanding Middle English, particularly in conjunction with the text "Fourteenth Century Verse & Prose" by Kenneth Sisam. This vocabulary focuses on common words and phrases, providing etymological insights and usage examples to foster a better grasp of the language's structure and idiom. The opening of the vocabulary outlines its purpose and methodology, explaining that it does not strive for completeness but aims at facilitating a working knowledge of Middle English. Tolkien emphasizes the importance of familiarizing oneself with the ordinary machinery of expression—including prepositions and idiomatic phrases—rather than merely acquiring a rare vocabulary. Furthermore, he mentions that extensive cross-references and a concise etymological framework are provided for each entry, thereby allowing beginners to approach the study of Middle English with both confidence and clarity.