Old Portuguese Phonology: A Comprehensive Guide to the Sounds of Medieval Portuguese

Introduction

Old Portuguese Phonology is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to the sounds of medieval Portuguese. Written by renowned linguist Rosa Mattos e Silva, this book provides a detailed analysis of the phonological system of Old Portuguese, from its origins in Latin to its evolution into modern Portuguese.

Phonological System of Old Portuguese

The book begins with an overview of the phonological system of Old Portuguese, including its vowel and consonant inventories, as well as its stress and intonation patterns. Mattos e Silva provides a thorough description of each sound, including its phonetic properties, distribution, and historical development.

Historical Phonology

One of the strengths of this book is its detailed treatment of the historical phonology of Old Portuguese. Mattos e Silva traces the evolution of the Portuguese sound system from its Latin roots, through the various sound changes that occurred during the medieval period, to its eventual transformation into modern Portuguese. This historical perspective provides a deep understanding of the phonological processes that shaped the language.

Dialectal Variation

Another important aspect of Old Portuguese Phonology is its discussion of dialectal variation. Mattos e Silva examines the different regional dialects of Old Portuguese, highlighting their unique phonological features. This information is essential for understanding the linguistic diversity of medieval Portugal and the development of the Portuguese language as a whole.

Applications and Implications

The book concludes with a discussion of the applications and implications of Old Portuguese phonology. Mattos e Silva explores the relevance of Old Portuguese phonology to various fields, including historical linguistics, dialectology, and language teaching. She also discusses the importance of preserving and studying medieval Portuguese texts for understanding the history and evolution of the Portuguese language.

Conclusion

Old Portuguese Phonology is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history and development of the Portuguese language. With its comprehensive coverage of the phonological system of Old Portuguese, its detailed treatment of historical phonology, and its discussion of dialectal variation, this book is a must-have for linguists, historians, and anyone else fascinated by the evolution of language.

Why You Should Buy This Book

If you are interested in the history of the Portuguese language, or if you are a linguist or historian, then Old Portuguese Phonology is a must-have for your library. This comprehensive and authoritative guide provides a wealth of information on the sounds of medieval Portuguese, from its origins in Latin to its evolution into modern Portuguese. With its detailed analysis of the phonological system, its discussion of historical phonology, and its exploration of dialectal variation, this book is an essential resource for anyone interested in the development of the Portuguese language.