History of Linguistics from the Origins to the 20th Century - Georges Mounin

History of Linguistics from the Origins to the 20th Century

In this comprehensive and engaging book, renowned linguist Georges Mounin takes readers on a captivating journey through the history of linguistics, from its ancient origins to the 20th century. With a masterful blend of scholarship and storytelling, Mounin brings to life the key figures, theories, and debates that have shaped the study of language.

A Journey Through Time

Mounin begins by exploring the earliest linguistic inquiries, tracing the roots of linguistics back to ancient civilizations such as India, Greece, and China. He delves into the contributions of pioneering thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Panini, who laid the foundation for linguistic analysis.

The Middle Ages and the Renaissance

The book then moves on to the Middle Ages, a period marked by significant developments in linguistic thought. Mounin examines the rise of grammar as a discipline, the influence of Christianity on linguistic studies, and the emergence of vernacular languages in literature. He also discusses the contributions of medieval scholars such as Isidore of Seville and Roger Bacon.

The Enlightenment and Beyond

The Enlightenment brought about a renewed interest in language and communication. Mounin explores the impact of rationalism and empiricism on linguistic thought, as well as the rise of comparative linguistics and historical linguistics. He examines the work of influential figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Leibniz, who contributed to the advancement of linguistic studies.

The 19th Century: A Golden Age of Linguistics

The 19th century witnessed a remarkable flourishing of linguistic research. Mounin delves into the development of structural linguistics, the rise of phonetics, and the emergence of sociolinguistics. He discusses the contributions of prominent linguists such as Ferdinand de Saussure, Wilhelm von Humboldt, and Franz Bopp, who revolutionized the field of linguistics.

The 20th Century: New Frontiers

The 20th century saw the continued expansion and diversification of linguistics. Mounin explores the development of generative grammar, the rise of cognitive linguistics, and the emergence of computational linguistics. He examines the work of influential linguists such as Noam Chomsky, George Lakoff, and Alan Turing, who pushed the boundaries of linguistic knowledge.

A Treasure Trove of Linguistic Insights

"History of Linguistics from the Origins to the 20th Century" is a must-read for anyone interested in the study of language. With its comprehensive coverage, engaging narrative, and wealth of insights, this book offers a unique and invaluable perspective on the evolution of linguistics.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are fascinated by the power of language and the intricacies of human communication, then "History of Linguistics from the Origins to the 20th Century" is a book you cannot afford to miss. Join Georges Mounin on this extraordinary journey through time and discover the fascinating world of linguistics.