Joseph Wright
A Middle High German Primer
Third Edition
"A Middle High German Primer" by Joseph Wright is an educational textbook intended to serve as an introduction to Middle High German, likely written in the late 19th century. The work aims to make the study of this historical language accessible for English students, providing foundational insights into grammar, syntax, and pronunciation. It also features a glossary and selected texts from notable Middle High German literature. The opening of the primer outlines its educational purpose and introduces the structure of the book. Joseph Wright, a renowned philologist, expresses his intention to cater to beginners and emphasizes the growing interest in Middle High German among English students. He remarks on his reliance on established grammars of the language to create a comprehensive yet accessible guide. The text provides insights into the classification of Middle High German dialects, laying the groundwork for the grammar and vocabulary that will follow.