The Evolution and Global Influence of the English Language

The Evolution of Received Pronunciation (RP)

Origins of RP in Public Schools

During Victorian times in the 19th century, boys from different regions were brought together in public schools and taught a uniform accent. These boys were destined for influential positions, which elevated the perceived status of their accent, associating it with the upper class. This system significantly influenced the dissemination of one particular accent of English: Received Pronunciation (RP), spoken by approximately 1 in 50 people.

RP's Dissemination and Shifting Authority

The radio and television, particularly the BBC, adopted RP, especially during World War II. Non-standard accents were often perceived as deficient. Today, RP holds less authority than it once did.

Global Reach: English After Colonialism

The Legacy of the British Empire

Thanks to the British Empire, RP gained worldwide prestige.

English in India: A Vital Link Language

In India, there was a desire to replace English, but it proved indispensable as a link language. English remains the main language in civil administration, government, politics, and law. Approximately one-tenth of India's population speaks English. It is indispensable for a career and an essential part of a good education, also being socially desirable, even for girls, and associated with the high class.

English in Africa: Bridging Linguistic Divides

Africa boasts over 1000 languages, necessitating a link language, for which English is a strong option. Sixteen countries have retained English since decolonization. English creoles are spreading in the markets and bazaars of West Africa. Standard English is taught in African schools and is crucial for careers in law, medicine, or government.

Understanding English Varieties and Usage

Defining Slang and Jargon

• Slang: Informal words and expressions common in spoken language, typically used by a specific group of people.
• Jargon: Words or expressions used by a particular profession or group, often difficult for outsiders to understand.

Regional and Specialized English: California

California English encompasses various specialized forms, such as surf talk, Valley Girl slang, gay slang, feminist English, and computer jargon.

Estuary English: A Modern London Dialect

Estuary English: A mixture of RP and regional features, Estuary English lies between RP and Cockney (a popular London speech). It appears to hold more prestige than RP among younger people.

The Historical Process of English Standardization

Selecting a Standard English Variety

During the Middle English period (1066-1447), there was no standard form of the language. William Caxton recognized the economic dimension of standardization: eliminating the need to print a different version of a book for every regional variety of English. The East Midland and West Midland dialects were more widely understood. The East Midland dialect, specifically London's, gained prominence due to London's prestige as the capital city, political center, and hub of commerce and administration.

Chancery English: Official Language Development

From the arrival of the Normans in 1066 until around 1430, official documents were primarily written in French or Latin. The Chancery then adopted a variety of English based on the London dialect, incorporating some Central Midland elements and Northern features, leading to the 'Chancery Standard.' William Caxton set up his printing press in Westminster in 1476.

The Influence of Religious Texts on English

Religion was an important factor in standardization. With the Reformation, religious texts began to be produced in English. The first licensed English Bible appeared in 1537, followed by the Book of Common Prayer in 1549, and the most famous English Bible, the King James Bible, in 1611.