French Becomes the Language of the Rulers
After 1066, Norman French became the language of:
- The royal court
- Government
- Law
- The nobility
English remained the language of ordinary people.
Mixing Languages
Over time, English absorbed thousands of French words.
Examples include:
|
Anglo-Saxon Word |
Norman French Influence |
|
Kingly |
Royal |
|
Freedom |
Liberty |
|
Help |
Aid |
|
Begin |
Commence |
Eventually, English and French blended together.
This helped create the English language we speak today.