This book presents, for the first time in English, a complete critical survey of the theory and methodology of Indo-European linguistics, from its origins two centuries ago to the present day.

The Bases for Reconstructing Pre-IEFrom Pie to Pre-IeResidues in Pie that Prompt its Identification as a Reflex of an Active Languagelexical StructureSyntaxDerivational MorphologyInflectional MorphologyPhonologyThe Culture of the Pre-Indo-European SpeakersPre-IE and Possible Related Languages

This crititcal survey of the theory and methodology of Indo-European linguistics ranges from its origins in the 18th century to the present day. It surveys the current status of Indo-European linguistics by making material accessible and by re-examinig the outlines of older theories. The latest advances in the field are also examined, notably by Soviet scholars in the area of typology, which have improved not only our understanding of Proto-Indo-European speakers and their background, but have imporatnt implications for further studies in the field. There is also an account of the phonology, morphology and syntax of Pre- and Proto-Indo-European. This analysis shows the development of various problems and approaches in historical perspective as well as applying and exploring current linguistic findings and theory in the area.

Historical Linguistics provides a comprehensive and clearly written introduction to historical linguistic theory and methods. Since its first publication in 1962 the book has established itself as core reading for students of linguistics. This edition has been thoroughly revised. Drawing on recent linguistic and archaeological research Professor Lehmann incorporates key developments in the field. These include exciting advances in the history and development of writing: and in typological classification which allows better understanding of the structure of early languages. Well-illustrated with Indo-European examples, and supplementary exercises which draw on data from other language families as well, the book will enable students to carry out independent work in historical studies on any language family, as well as up-to-date work in Indo-European.