ENG 229 Final, Spring 1996

Dr. M. Ghaleb June 25, 1996 £229 Final - History of the English Language WRITE CLEARLY! Name: ‘ 1. [5 points] Each of the semantic developments described below is an example of either pejoration or amelioration. Identify the process illustrated by writing in the blank P for pejoration or A for amelioration. sophisticated: earlier ‘overly complex or refined’ later ‘sufficiently complex or knowing’ reek: earlier ‘smile’ later ‘stink’ minister: earlier ‘servant? later ‘government official’ inquisition: earlier ‘investigation’ later ‘persecution’ luxury: earlier ‘lust later ‘sumptuousness’ 2. [10 points] There is an etymological contradiction in each of these statements. Cite the etymological meaning of the italicized word that creates the pseudo- inconsistency. (a) Although the two men were companions of long standing, they never shared a meal. (b) The ship’s passengers were quarantined for two weeks. (c) He endorsed the proposal by signing his name with a flourish across the front of the document. (d) Although her hair was neatly arranged, she looked disheveled. (e) The team scampered onto the field, eager to meet their opponents. 12) 3. [% points] What language has had an influence on the English vocabulary over the longest period of time? Why has that language, more than any other, had such an influence? 4. [@ points] These trade names were suggested by already existing words or word elements in the English language. Identify the earlier forms which underlie the trade name. automat Band-aid Frigidaire mimeograph escalator 5. [10 points] From what language was the prefix in each of these words originally derived? Label each work G (Greek), L (Latin), or OE (Old English) according to the source of the prefix. circumnavigate stepchild retrospect retrospect twilight- malformed parapsychology midday sumame . ultraviolet ap {@ points} Translate the following Old English selection into Modern English. Then, point out and describe the phases of change for three features of OE found in the selection. Note: J have provided root translations immediately after words . which I do not expect you to be able to know; you have to provide the correct form of the root word, when necessary!. Sum man ferde fram Hierusalem to Hiericho, and becom on éa sceadan (thief); pa hine bereafodon (to rob) and tintregodon (to torment) hine, and forleton (to leave) hine samcucene (half-alive). ba gebyrode (to happen) hit pat sum sacerd ferde (priest) on bam ylcan wege, and pa he pzet geseah (fo see), he hine forbeah (to pass by). And eall (also) swa se diacon (deacon), pa he wees wid ba stowe (place) and pet geseah, he hyne eac forbeah.