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Development of the English alphabet
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Development of the English alphabet
Development of the English alphabet. The Old Greek alphabet derived from Phoenician and was in use by 900-800 BC. A western variant, known as the Euboean or Cumae alphabet, was used between the 8th to 5th centuries BC. The Etruscans adopted it and spread writing within the Italic peninsula, leading to the development of the Latin alphabet by the Romans. Uncial was used by Latin and Greek scribes (4th and 8th centuries AD) and was written in capitals, as other alphabets. Minuscule cursive (lower case) script developed from rapidly written versions of uncial, incorporating the linking of letters in the 4th century AD. Table from The Story of the Alphabet (Edward Clodd, 1900)
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Media ID 6296323
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900 Alphabet Antiquity Classical Diagram Edward Clodd Greek Language Latin Letter Linguistic Linguistics Roman Romans Script Symbol Table The Story Of The Alphabet Venetian Writing Writing System Etruscans Italics Latin Alphabet Miniscule
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This print showcases the fascinating journey of the English alphabet's development throughout history. Starting with its ancient roots, we see how the Old Greek alphabet emerged from Phoenician influences and became widely used by 900-800 BC. As time progressed, a western variant known as the Euboean or Cumae alphabet took center stage between the 8th and 5th centuries BC. The significance of this evolution becomes even more apparent as we delve into the impact it had on other civilizations. The Etruscans adopted this script, spreading writing across the Italic peninsula and ultimately paving the way for the Romans to develop their own Latin alphabet. This Roman alphabetic script would go on to shape not only their language but also influence many others in what is now known as Romance languages. As we explore further, we encounter different styles of writing that were prevalent during specific periods. Uncial script, utilized by both Latin and Greek scribes between the 4th and 8th centuries AD, was written in capitals like many other alphabets at that time. However, it was during this era that minuscule cursive script began to emerge rapidly from uncial versions, incorporating letter linking techniques. This thought-provoking table from "The Story of Alphabet" by Edward Clodd (1900) offers us a glimpse into an intricate web of linguistic history filled with symbolism and artistic expression. It serves as a reminder of how our modern-day communication systems have evolved over thousands of years through various cultures' contributions to shaping our beloved English alphabet.
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