Watch English in America: A Linguistic History

English in America: A Linguistic History from The Great Courses Signature Collection is a fascinating exploration of the evolution of the English language in the United States. Taught by Dr. Natalie Schilling, a professor of linguistics at Georgetown University, the course is presented through a series of 24 lectures that are each approximately 30 minutes in length.

The course begins by tracing the origins of English in America, from its earliest roots in the colonial period to the present day. Dr. Schilling explains how English was influenced by the many different languages spoken by immigrants to the United States, including Spanish, French, German, and Dutch. She also discusses the different ways in which English has been spoken in different regions of the country, such as the South, the Midwest, and the West Coast.

Throughout the course, Dr. Schilling uses a variety of examples to illustrate the changes in English over time. She shows how pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar have all evolved over the centuries, sometimes in ways that are surprising or unexpected. For example, she discusses the influence of African American English on the broader culture, noting that words like "cool" and "hip" were originally African American slang terms that have now become part of the mainstream lexicon.

One of the most interesting aspects of English in America is its discussion of how English has been used to reflect and shape American identity. Dr. Schilling explores how different groups have used language as a way to assert their own distinctiveness, whether it's the New England Puritans who borrowed heavily from the Bible, or the African Americans who developed their own distinct dialect and idioms. She also considers how English has been used to express political and social movements, from the anti-slavery movement of the 19th century to the civil rights movement of the 1960s.

Another fascinating aspect of the course is its exploration of the impact of technology on English language. From the printing press to the internet, Dr. Schilling shows how advances in technology have shaped the way in which English is used, from the standardization of spelling and grammar to the development of new words and terminology. She also discusses the role of social media in shaping contemporary English, including the rise of new words and idioms that have gained currency through platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

Throughout English in America, Dr. Schilling is an engaging and knowledgeable guide. She has a gift for making complex linguistic concepts understandable and relatable, and she is able to draw on a wide range of examples from throughout American history to illustrate her points. Additionally, the course is beautifully produced, with high-quality video and audio that makes it a pleasure to watch and listen to.

Overall, English in America: A Linguistic History from The Great Courses Signature Collection is an excellent course for anyone interested in the history and evolution of the English language. Whether you're a linguistics nerd or simply curious about how the language you speak every day has changed over time, this course provides a fascinating and informative look at the evolution of English in the United States. Highly recommended!

English in America: A Linguistic History is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between February 5, 2016 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection