History and Evolution of the English Language

The video explores the evolution of the English language, starting with the Roman rule in Britain, followed by the Saxon and Viking influences, and culminating in the Norman conquest. It highlights how these historical events shaped the language, introducing words from Old Norse and French, and how these words carry different connotations today. The video also challenges viewers to visualize scenes using words of Saxon and French origin, illustrating the lasting impact of history on language perception.

What is the purpose of the initial imagination exercise?

• To practice writing

• To compare two languages

• To visualize different scenes

• To test memory

Who protected the Celts from the Saxon tribes?

• The Frisians

• The Normans

• The Vikings

• The Romans

What language did the Germanic tribes bring to Britain?

• Old Norse

• Old English

• Latin

• French

Which treaty split the island between the Saxons and the Danes?

• The Treaty of Paris

• The Treaty of Utrecht

• The Treaty of Versailles

• The Treaty of Wedmore

What language did the Danes speak?

• Old Norse

• French

• Old English

• Latin

Who brought French to the British Isles?

• The Romans

• The Saxons

• The Normans

• The Celts

For how many centuries was French the language of British royalty?

• Three centuries

• Two centuries

• One century

• Four centuries

Which words are associated with nobility and authority?

• Latin words

• French words

• Germanic words

• Saxon words

What connotation do Saxon words have?

• Authority

• Nobility

• Sophistication

• Peasantry

What persists in the feelings evoked by the words we speak?

• Modern culture

• Historical memory

• Personal experiences

• Educational background