Sir Gawain and þe Grene Kny3t Myddle Englyshe Sir Gawain and þe Grene Kny3t

Origins of Middle English French and Scandinavian influences One of the five major languages spoken in Europe during 11th and 15th centuries. A widely varied language Four dialects: Northern, Midland, Southern, Kentish Middle English developed out of French and Scandinavian influences It was one of the five major languages spoken in Europe during 11th and 15th centuries Middle English is a widely varied language, with the alphabet, symbols etc. not tied down to one area or culture. Middle English had four major dialects spoken in different regions of the United Kingdom, which were: Northern, Midland, Southern, and Kentish.

Origins Continued Though Anglo-Norman French eventually replaced it in the upper class, it remained the language of the people. During the 15th century, a more modern form of English, known then as Chancery Standard, became widespread, aided by the printing press. Though Anglo-Norman French replaced it in the upper class, it remained the language of the people. During the 15th century, a more modern form of English, known then as Chancery Standard, became widespread, aided by the printing press.

Symbols Þ (Thorn) Pronounced “th” 3 Pronounced “y” or “gh”

Pronunciation Rules (Consonants) Pronounce all of them Say gh with lots of breath, like the ch in German ich Say the l before an f and the w before an r Roll R's Always pronounce s's as in hiss, not as a z

Pronunciation Rules (Vowels) The ending -ion or -ioun is always said with two syllables, never like shun “Au” and “aw” pronounced like “ow” in “how” “Oo” has long “o” sound like in “boat” “Ow” and “ou” have “oo” sound like in “boot”

Works Cited “Middle English.” 7 April 2007. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 17 April 2007. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Middle_english> Middle English Pronunciation Guide.” 17 April 2007. <http://webpages.marshall.edu/~will2/ chaucer.html>