We will begin by defining language and distinguishing it from other modes of human and animal communication. Then we will explore how language began and how it changes. The topics will include language history (Indo-European and English), language families, dialects and grammar. The core of the course comes from the first half of Columbia University Professor John McWhorter's Story of Human Language, a 36 lecture video. Each session will consist of 2 half-hour lectures, followed by discussion. Arthur Brakel is a linguist. This class for adults over 50 meets Wednesdays through Nov 30th. No class Oct 12th.
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