Subject
Cant -- Dictionaries Books
Best books
John Camden Hotten
A Dictionary of Slang, Cant, and Vulgar Words Used at the Present Day in the Streets of London; the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge; the Houses of Parliament; the Dens of St. Giles; and the Palaces of St. James.
"A Dictionary of Slang, Cant, and Vulgar Words" by John Camden Hotten is a dictionary published in 1859. This groundbreaking lexicon captures the vivid street language of Victorian London, from the universities of Oxford and Cambridge to the dens of St. Giles. Hotten documents criminal slang, back slang, and rhyming slang, arguing that slang represents "that evanescent, vulgar language, ever changing with fashion and taste." The work stands as the most important study of informal language since Francis Grose's 1785 dictionary.
George W. (George Washington) Matsell
Vocabulum; or The Rogue's Lexicon Compiled from the Most Authentic Sources
"Vocabulum; or The Rogue's Lexicon" by George W. Matsell is a lexicon-like reference work written in the mid-19th century. The book serves as a compilation of the unique language and slang used by criminals and the rogue community, providing insights into a subculture that communicates through a specialized dialect. It is not only to aid law enforcement but also to educate readers on how this language has permeated society, becoming part of mainstream lexicon over time. The opening of this work introduces Matsell's motivation for compiling this lexicon. As a Special Justice and Chief of Police in New York, he realized the importance of understanding the language of the criminal underworld to perform his duties effectively. He recounts how the rogue community possesses a distinct dialect that evolves and infiltrates everyday language, thereby bridging the worlds of law enforcement and criminality. The preface explains the challenges he faced in gathering this slang, much of which had previously only existed in oral form. Matsell emphasizes that knowledge of this vocabulary is valuable not only for police officers but also for the general public, as it is used in various forms of communication, including official messages and daily discourse.
Unknown
The Surprising Adventures of Bampfylde Moore Carew, King of the Beggars Containing his Life, a Dictionary of the Cant Language, and many Entertaining Particulars of that Extraordinary Man
"The Surprising Adventures of Bampfylde Moore Carew, King of the Beggars" by Unknown is a fictional account written in the early 19th century. The book chronicles the life and escapades of Bampfylde Moore Carew, who rises from the status of a gentleman to become the charismatic leader of a group of beggars and gypsies. Through clever disguises and ingenious stratagems, Carew navigates a world of deception while revealing insights about society's interactions with its less fortunate members. The opening of the narrative introduces Mr. Bampfylde Moore Carew, detailing his noble lineage and early education, which sets the stage for his adventurous life. His transformation begins when he encounters a group of gypsies, leading to his initiation into their community with all its unique customs and laws. Carew's natural charm and quick wit quickly elevate him within the ranks of the mendicants, and he undertakes various exploits, masterfully adopting different identities to elicit sympathy and assistance from the public. The beginning establishes Carew's character as a complex figure defined by both his societal critique and his personal journey of self-discovery, which promises an engaging exploration of society's underbelly.
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