Have you ever wondered what Shakespeare's plays really sounded like? Or how people conversed in the bustling streets of London centuries ago? The world of Early Modern English pronunciation offers a fascinating glimpse into the linguistic past, a world distinct from the English we speak today. Let's embark on a journey to understand the nuances and complexities of this historical form of the language.
What is Early Modern English? Defining the Period
Before diving into pronunciation, it's important to define the period we're discussing. Early Modern English (EME) generally spans from the late 15th century to the late 17th century, roughly from the introduction of the printing press to the Restoration. This era witnessed significant linguistic changes, influenced by factors like the Great Vowel Shift, increased literacy, and growing contact with other languages. Understanding this historical context is crucial for interpreting the available evidence regarding pronunciation.
The Great Vowel Shift: A Revolution in Sound
The Great Vowel Shift (GVS) was a pivotal sound change that dramatically altered the landscape of English pronunciation. It primarily affected the long vowels, causing them to shift upwards in the mouth. For example, the vowel in "bite" which was once pronounced closer to "beet-ah", became the diphthong we use today. This ongoing transformation significantly impacted how words were spoken during the Early Modern English period. Its effects ripple through even contemporary English. Resources like the Cambridge History of the English Language (Hogg, 1992) offer a deeper dive into the mechanics and timeline of the GVS.
Sources of Evidence: Reconstructing Early Modern English Speech
Reconstructing historical pronunciation is a detective's work, relying on various sources to piece together the puzzle. We can look at the following:
- Rhymes: Poets often provide clues through their rhyming schemes. If two words rhyme in a poem, it suggests that they likely shared a similar pronunciation at the time. Analyzing the rhymes in Shakespeare's sonnets, for example, can give clues on Early Modern English pronunciation.
- Spellings: Variations in spelling can indicate differences in pronunciation. Consider the various spellings of the word
