Lesson 3: Germanic vs Latinate
Welcome to Lesson 3, where we’re diving into the melting pot of English, a language influenced by numerous cultures, histories, and invasions. One of the most intriguing aspects of English is the dance between Germanic and Latinate roots. Let’s delve into these two major influencers, understanding how they shape our expressions, color our narratives, and offer diverse shades of meaning.
1. Germanic Words: Origin: The heart of English beats with its Germanic pulse. Thanks to the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, Germanic tribes from what are now Denmark and northern Germany.
Characteristics:
- Direct and straightforward, these words are usually short and linked to everyday life.
- Think about foundational words we’ve used since the earliest days of English.
Examples: Words like “man,” “drink,” or “house” have that Germanic simplicity.
2. Latinate Words: Origin: Enter the Normans in 1066. With them came Old French, heavily influenced by Latin due to the Roman stay in Gaul (today’s France). And just like that, English got a sprinkle of Latin sophistication.
Characteristics:
- Often longer and imbued with a sense of formality.
- You’ll see them pop up in academic, legal, and scientific contexts.
Examples: Dive into words like “temperature” or “university” to get that Latinate vibe.
Germanic vs. Latinate: It’s not about picking sides. Germanic words often feel robust and direct, while Latinate ones bring a touch of formality. Consider the difference between “kingly” (Germanic) and “royal” (Latinate). It’s not a rigid dichotomy, just a flavor difference.
Now, about that “Clear Window pane.” In crafting your prose, think of achieving clarity, like peering through an unblemished window. While it’s suggested to lean towards about 10% Latinate to maintain flow, remember it’s not a strict rule. Sometimes, the modern feel of a Latinate word might be exactly what you need.
When dissecting the works of great authors like Tolkien, Rothfuss, and Sanderson, the variance isn’t just in word choice but in their approach to description. Tolkien paints vivid landscapes, Rothfuss delves into intimate emotions, while Sanderson offers a concise snapshot. Their choices in Germanic and Latinate words further color these narratives.
English, with its dual Germanic and Latinate influences, is like a linguistic tapestry, rich and varied. By recognizing these roots, we can better appreciate the depth of our language and harness its full potential in our writing. No ChatGPT tutor lesson here. This is pretty straight forward.
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Written by : willmegenney
