The 'story' of English is continually re-told and re-written, as more and more people use the language and have a part in shaping the way it develops.

Varieties of Modern English

Beginning by outlining the main types of variation in language, the book focuses on the link between language or dialect and the construction of both group and individual identities. Issues of identity are crucial to chapters on the roots of Modern English, on gender and English, on ethnicity and English and on English as an international language. As well as looking at a range of 'users' of the language, Davies also explores many of its 'uses' and modes, including the English of literary texts, advertising, newspaper reporting and commentary, political speeches, email and text messaging.

Written in a discursive, student-friendly style, the book also provides:

* A rich mix of illustrative material

* End-of-chapter Activities and related Comments at the end of the book

* Suggestions for further reading

Varieties of Modern English provides a thought-provoking overview of its subject and will be invaluable reading for students of English Language and Linguistics.

Diane Davies is a Lecturer in Applied Linguistics and TESOL in the School of Education at the University of Leicester

1. Setting Out
2. Studying Varieties
3. The March of Modern English
4. English as a Global Perspective
5. Ethnicity and Varieties of English
6. Gender, Sexuality and English
7. Speech, Writing and New Media
8. English in Context
9. English and Power
10. The Future of English as an International Language

References

Index