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The Creoleness of Middle English


# 24061
The Creoleness of Middle English
Asking the question whether Middle English language can be defined as a creole or not.
3,297 words (approx. 13.2 pages) | 9 sources | MLA | 2001


Paper Summary:

This paper deals with the question whether Middle English could be considered a creole or not. In this essay it is argued that Middle English cannot be considered a creole. First the writer looks at the definition of the word creole and then looks at some creolization criteria. Finally, it looks at the "creole hypothesis" i.e. the hypothesis that Middle English would be a creole, in a sociohistorical and sociolinguistic framework.

From the Paper:

"There are two terms that need to be defined before going further. The first term is pidgin. In short, a pidgin is a language which has been drastically simplified in structure and vocabulary, in order to serve communication needs. It is no-one's native language. Pidginization may arise when two language communities come into sudden direct contact, for instance in trade contact or military invasion.

"The second term that needs to be defined is creole. A creole is usually preceded by a pidgin. This is how a pidgin may become a creole: In a few exceptional sociolinguistic circumstances, a pidgin may be adopted as the first language of a community and acquires native speakers. In this case it undergoes elaboration, i.e. creolization. Normally, there is also an expansion in function (Poussa 40)."

Cite this paper

APA Citation:

The Creoleness of Middle English (2012, January 15). Retrieved February 13, 2012, from http://www.academon.com/Research-Paper-The-Creoleness-of-Middle-English/24061

MLA Citation:

"The Creoleness of Middle English" 15 January 2012. Web. 13 Feb. 2012. <http://www.academon.com/Research-Paper-The-Creoleness-of-Middle-English/24061>




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Published by:

Judith NL
Publisher Since:
Feb 19, 2003
2002 Master?s degree (English language and literature), University of Amsterdam 2000-2002 Major in English linguistics (University of Amsterdam). 1999-2002 English language and literature (University of Amsterdam) 1991-1997 Grammar School
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