Edit Article

The phrase "Old English" can be of great confusion, even to native English speakers. While Old English is the ancestor of our modern tongue, the historical processes that have occurred since the Anglo-Saxon conquest of England have made Old and Modern English mutually unintelligible. But Old English is still important for much of our vocabulary and as part of our cultural heritage. The reasons for learning it are numerous; these steps should help you get started and achieve success.



  1. 1
    Understand that Old English differs greatly from Modern English, Early Modern English, and Middle English. The differences between Old and Modern English include phonology, grammar, and vocabulary. While you may recognize certain basic words, a passage of Old English will most likely be impossible to read. Likewise, it is important to remember that, despite some popular misconceptions, it is incorrect to label the language of Shakespeare as "Old English."
  2. 2
    Treat Old English as a foreign language. Because Old English is foreign to Modern English speakers, you will need to adopt many of the strategies commonly used for learning foreign languages. This includes learning the basics: the writing system, grammar (including sentence structure and word construction), and vocabulary.
  3. 3
    Look for instruction locally or online. Old English is certainly not the most widely taught language, so it may be difficult to find classes in your area. However, resources are available online at locations such as http://www.ucalgary.ca/UofC/eduweb/engl401/. Examine online search results for the instruction style that best suits you.
  4. 4
    Be prepared for a challenge. Learning any new language is a difficult task, and one that requires constant practice. Do not be frustrated by these inevitable challenges, and instead stay focused on your goal.
  5. 5
    Look for ways to make it fun. Whether you are learning Old English for a school requirement or simply out of curiosity, make sure that you cherish the opportunity to learn. The history of Old English and the transition to Modern English is fascinating; immerse yourself in the the history and literature. Many translations of Beowulf are accompanied by the original Old English text, and reading these translations can be a source of education and entertainment that keeps you focused on your goals.


An example from the Beowulf manuscript:

Original Text Translation
Hwæt! wē Gār-Dena in geār-dagum Listen! We [of] Gar-Danes (lit. spear-danes) in yore-days,
þeod-cyninga, þrym gefrunon [of] people-kings, trim (glory) afrained(have learned of by asking),
hu ða æþelingas ellen fremedon. how those athelings (princes) arm-strong feats framed (made/performed).

Article Info

Categories: English Dialects and Slang

In other languages:

Español: aprender inglés antiguo, Português: Aprender Inglês Antigo

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,031 times.

Did this article help you?
Yes No

an Author!

Write an Article