A Handbook of the English Language

by R. G. (Robert Gordon) Latham

"A Handbook of the English Language" by R. G. Latham is an academic and linguistic study written in the mid-19th century. The book provides an analysis of the English language, exploring its historical and ethno-linguistic origins, dialects, and evolution over time. It particularly details the Germanic roots of English, alongside its interactions with Celtic and classical languages, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars of linguistics and English literature. At the start of this handbook, the author emphasizes that the English language does not originate from the British Isles but instead has its roots in the Germanic languages of continental Europe. Latham highlights significant waves of migration and settlement by Germanic tribes, such as the Jutes, Saxons, and Angles, into Britain, outlining their roles in shaping the English language. He also discusses the historical accounts of these migrations, noting the challenges in verifying early records, thus prompting readers to consider the complexities of linguistic heritage and the gradual integration of various dialects and languages that have influenced modern English.