Global English

Catalog description

Having developed since the fifth century in the British Isles, English has now become a global language used by millions of native and non-native speakers around the world. This course examines the historical roots of English and the factors that explain its spread as the lingua franca of globalization, adopting the metaphor of `ecology¿ to illustrate how English has adapted INTERNALLY in response to, and in conjunction with, EXTERNAL circumstances. Readings and activities will explore how English language has been instrumental to globalization and how globalization has changed English. After studying the historical and geopolitical bases for the rise of English, we explore the implications of decolonization, diaspora communities, the Internet, and the new economy for diversifying the structure, norms, and usage of the English language. We will place particular emphasis on exploring new modes of literacy and discourse practices, the fluid relationships between English and other languages and cultures, and the continuing reconceptualization of language standards, linguistic identities, and literacy practices.