Anglisc

Anglisc is a term used to describe the Old English language as it was spoken in the Anglo-Saxon period, roughly from the 5th to the 11th century. It is a North Germanic language that evolved from the West Germanic dialects spoken by the Anglo-Saxons who settled in Britain. The term "Anglisc" is derived from the Old English word "Englisc," which means "English."

Anglisc is characterized by its complex inflectional morphology and a rich system of declensions and conjugations. It has a phonetic system that includes short and long vowels, diphthongs, and a variety of consonant sounds. The language was written using the Latin alphabet, which was adapted to represent the sounds of Old English.

Anglisc literature includes works such as Beowulf, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles, and various religious texts. The language played a crucial role in the development of Middle English and, ultimately, Modern English. Despite its decline in the 12th century, Anglisc left a lasting impact on the English language and culture.

The study of Anglisc is an important field within historical linguistics and medieval studies. Scholars examine the language's grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics to understand the cultural and social contexts of the Anglo-Saxon period. The preservation of Old English texts, such as those found in the Exeter Book, provides valuable insights into the language and its usage.