英語の歴史

― 初期近代英語期 ―

抄録

　This article is part of a series of “A History of the English Language” that I am writing for the Tokyo Future University Bulletin. This time, the subject is about Early Modern English (1500-1700), especially regarding Shakespeare’s English. First, I will refer to the historical background of that time and give an overview about Early Modern English. Then, summarize the characteristics of Shakespeare’s language. Also, I will interpret Shakespeare’s message of his works, particularly about Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet. Furthermore, I would like to ponder the matter of correlation between Shakespeare’s English and present-day English. The English used here is American English, and the level of English is for students in general liberal arts courses at the university. This series, “A History of the English Language” is a record that I want many English learners to have, in order for them to acquire a more comprehensive understanding of the historical, linguistic, political, and cultural background of English. In addition, I will mention the future of English, as an ideal form of the global language in the final article of this series.