A Study of the Diachronic Influences of French on English Language

Besides their organically dynamic nature, most languages also evolve as the result of cross-lingual interactions. English has also been influenced by other foreign languages. This paper aims to investigate the socio-historical situation of English language under Norman Kings and to illustrate its semantic changes caused by the French influence. The Norman Conquest in 1066 is a major source of influence on the English language; however, its rate of change expedites with the accession of Prince Edward in 1042. During his reign, the chief positions in church and government are given to the Normans; accordingly, a few French words are introduced into English. The fact that he leaves no heir to the English Throne paves the way for William to conquer England in 1066. The impact of the Conquest is drastic on English language. Later on, England gains independence from with France in 1204 as the result of which the French hegemony also gives way to the revitalization of a modified version of English. Still, it should be noted that in 1362 English was the official language in courts of law, while the Parliament is simultaneously opened in English.