A Handbook of the Cornish Language chiefly in its latest stages with some account of its history and literature   By: Henry Jenner (1848-1934)

In "A Handbook of the Cornish Language chiefly in its latest stages with some account of its history and literature," Henry Jenner offers a comprehensive and invaluable resource for anyone interested in the Cornish language. While the title may sound somewhat daunting, the book itself is approachable and well-structured, making it accessible to both language enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Jenner begins by providing readers with a concise yet informative historical background on Cornish, tracing its origins and evolution over the centuries. This historical context lays a solid foundation for understanding the various stages of the language, from its earliest forms to its latest developments. Jenner's expertise as a linguist shines through his meticulous research and attention to detail, ensuring that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of Cornish.

One of the book's most commendable aspects is its approachable nature. Jenner presents the language in a systematic and logical manner, allowing readers to progress from basic to more advanced concepts seamlessly. This gradual progression prevents readers from feeling overwhelmed and encourages them to fully engage with the material. Furthermore, the inclusion of numerous examples, exercises, and vocabulary lists throughout the book enhances the learning experience and enables readers to apply their knowledge effectively.

In addition to its instructional value, "A Handbook of the Cornish Language" also serves as a valuable resource for studying Cornish literature. Jenner dedicates a significant portion of the book to discussing notable works written in Cornish, providing readers with a glimpse into the literary richness of the language. This inclusion not only enhances the cultural understanding of Cornish, but it also demonstrates Jenner's commitment to showcasing the language's vibrant history.

While the book predominantly focuses on Cornish in its latest stages, Jenner's comprehensive treatment of the subject ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the language's overall development. The inclusion of historical and literary context further enriches the reading experience, making this book an essential reference for both language learners and researchers interested in Cornish.

However, it is worth mentioning that some readers may find the book's depth of linguistic analysis challenging to navigate. Jenner's linguistic expertise occasionally makes certain sections denser and more technical, which might deter casual readers. Nevertheless, for those with a genuine interest in the subject matter, this level of detail serves as a valuable resource, deepening one's understanding of the language's intricacies.

In summary, "A Handbook of the Cornish Language chiefly in its latest stages with some account of its history and literature" is an exceptional resource for learning, understanding, and appreciating the Cornish language. Jenner's expertise and meticulous research make this book invaluable for both language enthusiasts and scholars in the field. With its accessible structure, extensive examples, and inclusion of historical and literary context, readers are sure to embark on an enriching journey into the fascinating world of Cornish linguistics and culture.

First Page:

Kerra ow Holon ! Beniges re vo Gans bennath Dew an dêdh a ’th ros dhemmo , Dhô whelas gerryow gwan pan dhetha vî , Tavas dha dassow , ha dhô ’th drovya dî . En cov an dêdh splan na es pel passyes ; En cov idn dêdh lowenek , gwin ’gan bês , War Garrak Loys en Côs , es en dan skês Askelly Myhal El , o ’gan gwithes ; En cov lîas dêdh wheg en Kernow da , Ha nŷ mar younk — na whekkah vel êr ma Dhemmo a dhîg genev an gwella tra , Pan dhetha vî en kerh , en ol bro na ; Dheso mî re levar dha davas teg , Flogh ow empinyon vî , dhô ’m kerra Gwrêg ... Continue reading book >>