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The Anglo-Norman language emerged after the Norman Conquest of 1066, blending Old Norman French with Old English. This language shaped the English linguistic landscape, influencing the ruling class and literature. Over time, it evolved into Middle English, yet its French-derived vocabulary remains a significant part of Modern English. The text explores the transformation, decline, and enduring influence of Anglo-Norman on English vocabulary and grammar.
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The Norman Conquest of 1066 brought the Anglo-Norman language to England
Incorporation of Old English vocabulary
Anglo-Norman evolved through the incorporation of Old English vocabulary
Transition to Middle English
By the mid-14th century, Anglo-Norman had largely given way to Middle English
The Anglo-Norman language has had a lasting impact on the English language, with a substantial portion of Modern English vocabulary stemming from French influence during the Norman period
The trilingual situation in England, with Anglo-Norman, Old English, and Latin as the main languages, set the stage for the emergence of Anglo-Norman as a distinct language
Anglo-Norman became the language of the ruling class, law, and official records, overshadowing Old English in formal contexts
Events such as the Hundred Years War fostered a stronger English national identity among the Normans, leading to the transition to Middle English
The Anglo-Norman period saw a flourishing of literature, with notable works such as Wace's "Roman de Brut" and the "Roman de Waldef."
Literary works during the Anglo-Norman period often contained stories and themes that were distinctly English, contributing to the burgeoning English literary tradition
The cross-pollination of words between Anglo-Norman and English reflects the shared history of England and France and underscores the enduring influence of the Anglo-Norman language on the English lexicon