Discover the sound and structure of a distinctive English dialect. This scholarly, accessible study reveals how West Somerset speech differs from standard English and why those differences matter.
The book presents a detailed, field‑based grammar of the West Somerset dialect. It covers vowels, diphthongs, and consonants, then moves through verb forms, nouns, adjectives, and pronouns. Throughout, it highlights how pronunciation and usage reflect regional history and everyday speech, with clear examples and careful analysis.
- A systematic look at vowel sounds and diphthongs, including how they vary by position and influence surrounding consonants.
- Guided notes on consonant behavior, initial sounds, and r articulation in this southern English speech.
- Practical discussion of grammar, including verbs, nouns, pronouns, numerals, and articles as used in the dialect.
- Illustrative passages and terminology that illuminate the book’s methodology and linguistic approach.
Ideal for students, linguists, and readers interested in English dialects and regional language variation.