At the centre of the labyrinth is Proto-Indo-European, the ancestral language identified in the eighteenth century. Routes from there take in other ancient languages, Celtic, tribal dialects, Anglo-Saxon, Old Norse, Norman-French and more. This exploration of the English language encompasses anthropology, genetics, history, literature and social history. Alongside a broadly chronological account beginning with prehistory and continuing to the twenty-first century are analyses of specific words; study of place-names, personal names and surnames; punctuation; regional dialects; acquisitions from modern languages and the global significance of English. Members will be set oral and written tasks and will be expected to read scripts in class (you are excused if you have difficulty with this). General knowledge of English history and literature is required. Some handouts are sent in advance; ideally you should be able to print these. Please do not apply if you can manage only the autumn term.