In 'The English Language,' R. G. Latham presents an extensive discourse on the structural intricacies and affiliations of the English language, which is articulated in an ambitiously systematic manner. With a discerning eye on both historical underpinnings and contemporary linguistic scholarship, Latham offers a work that aims to elevate the reader's understanding of English to that of the erudite scholars of his time. The volume marshals a comprehensive investigation into the complex grammatical framework of English, infused with the findings and criticisms of modern linguistic analysis. As it traverses the linguistic landscape, it parlays a controlled and scholarly prose style, establishing itself as a seminal exemplar of descriptive linguistics within a rich literary and educational context.R. G. Latham, a pre-eminent philologist and professor, was resolutely dedicated to the study of the English language, its origins, and its usage. Armed with profound expertise and the educational pedigree necessary for such an undertaking, Latham's motivation lay in the assertion that an educated Englishman should command a fundamental grasp of the formal mechanics of his own language. The result of his labor is an articulate exegesis positioned at the intersection of language scholarship and the burgeoning field of comparative philology, reflective of the intellectual currents of his time. 'The English Language' is, to no small degree, a product of his extensive research and esteemed academic contributions.For linguistic enthusiasts, language professionals, and students of English literature, R. G. Latham's 'The English Language' endures as an indispensible resource and insightful study guide. It is recommended not only for its methodical analysis and grammatical precision but also as a historical piece that captures the essence of linguistic thought in its era. This tome will particularly appeal to those seeking a deeper, historically grounded appreciation of the form and function of the English language, as grasped by a discerning 19th-century scholarly mind.

Robert Gordon Latham (18121888) was a renowned English philologist and ethnologist, whose contributions to the understanding of the English language have been significant. He was educated at Eton, and later attended King's College, Cambridge, where he graduated in 1832. Pursuing his interests in language studies, Latham became a prominent figure in philology, later holding a position of professor of English language and literature at University College, London from 1839 to 1852. His seminal work, 'The English Language' is a testament to his scholarly rigor and pivotal in the study of English philological history. This detailed analysis of the development, structure, and phonetics of the English language is often cited in linguistic studies, reflecting its enduring value. Latham's literary style blends comprehensive scholarship with a clarity that renders his work accessible. He was a member of many learned societies and contributed to the advancement of linguistic science and comparative philology, not only through his teachings but also via extensive writings on language and ethnography. Latham's dedication and meticulous approach to the study of the English language have cemented his reputation as one of the 19th century's most distinguished scholars in the field.