Episode 191: A Vision of the Future
Summary
This episode covers the 1640s, highlighting Richard Hodges’ 1644 book which documented the emerging "zh" sound in words like "vision." It details the English Civil War, including the Battle of Marston Moor and the creation of the New Model Army, which introduced terms like "redcoat" and "buff." The discussion also explores the rise of "self-" compounds reflecting changing individualism and Joshua Poole’s 1646 confirmation of "going to" as a future tense marker.
Topics discussed
The emergence of the 'zh' sound in English and Richard Hodges
Battle of Marston Moor and the creation of the New Model Army
Etymology of 'buff', 'right-hand man', and military terms
Execution of Laud, Battle of Naseby, and origins of 'Tory'
The rise of the 'self' concept and new compound words
Evolution of the future tense: 'going to' and 'about to'
End of First Civil War, religious divisions, and the Levellers
Origins of 'visionary', Humpty Dumpty, and 'pinch of salt'
Origins of 'Whig', Pride's Purge, and the execution of Charles I
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