Early English literature was written in Old English, which is vastly different from Modern English. Often, these texts are translated into more accessible language for modern readers. When reading these older forms of English, it can be difficult to understand the meaning, even if the language has been modified. In your opinion, what makes this literature so difficult to read? Is it the vocabulary, the characters, the type of storytelling, the density of the language, or something else? As you progressed through Old English texts to Middle English to Modern English, how did your understanding of the literature change? Can you explain what caused the change?

Question

English

Clark Haley

7 June, 12:35

Early English literature was written in Old English, which is vastly different from Modern English. Often, these texts are translated into more accessible language for modern readers. When reading these older forms of English, it can be difficult to understand the meaning, even if the language has been modified. In your opinion, what makes this literature so difficult to read? Is it the vocabulary, the characters, the type of storytelling, the density of the language, or something else? As you progressed through Old English texts to Middle English to Modern English, how did your understanding of the literature change? Can you explain what caused the change?

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Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Nikolas Hart · Answer 1

yes

Explanation:

most of the old literature is no longer useful in today's English.

Jaylynn Clements · Answer 2

English has evolved from its origins many years ago.

Explanation:

Old English is commonly used AngloSaxon since they were the ones who invaded the English Isles at that time. The Anglo and Saxon tribes had their own dialogue derived from old Norse. After there invasion, they spoke the common tongue of Anglosaxon. Later, as rulers wanted to become more "civilized" they started speaking French since that copy french royalty and in the process they would separate themselves from the commoners. That's why Old English is difficult to read because it hadn't undergone its evolution into the language we now know and use.