MIDDLE ENGLISH AND THE GREAT VOWEL SHIFT

This scientific article explores the phenomenon of Middle English and the Great Vowel Shift, a pivotal period in the history of the English language. The article examines the linguistic developments during the transition from Old English to Middle English, particularly the phonological changes between the 14th and 18th centuries. The Great Vowel Shift, a series of systematic changes in the pronunciation of vowels, is identified as a major factor that reshaped the phonetic structure of English. The paper also discusses the socio-cultural and historical factors influencing these linguistic changes, as well as their impact on English dialects and the development of modern English. By tracing these historical transformations, the article offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of the English language. Keywords: Middle English, Great Vowel Shift, phonological change, Old English, vowel pronunciation, English dialects, linguistic history, language evolution