Swearing
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Book Overview
Tracing the history of swearing from ancient Anglo-Saxon traditions and those of the Middle Ages, through Shakespeare, the Enlightenment and the Victorians, to the Lady Chatterley trial and various current trends, Geoffrey Hughes explores a fascinating, little discussed yet irrespressible part of our linguistic heritage. This second edition contains a Postscript updating various contemporary developments, such as the growth of Political Correctness.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0140267077
ISBN13:9780140267075
Release Date:September 1998
Publisher:Penguin Books
Length:304 Pages
Weight:0.48 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.1" x 7.8"
Age Range:18 years and up
Grade Range:Postsecondary and higher
Customer Reviews
2 ratings
Excellent book on a topic that's usually swept under the rug
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
This is an excellent history of the rich lexicon of the true English language. Shows how various traditions such as verbal baiting (flyting), 'blasphemies', and 'profanities' developed in in the tapestry of English ... and interesting in that it describes only a few hundred years ago or less the "four letter words" were just everyday language whereas blasphemy was regarded as beyond the pale. Interesting topsy-turvy compared to today's use!Learn where common or archiac expressions developed etc. Marvel at the rich linguistic traditions of working class English and the broad variation that Australian swearing can give to a single word.Although some reviews have said this is "academic" in tone (meaning well researched and footnoted I suppose) and it is indeed rigorous, it is a VERY LIVELY read which any moderately literate person can get excellent enjoyment from.
it was great
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
When i read the book i couldn't put the book down, it was so good i recomend it to anyone.
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