- Does not assume any background knowledge in language or linguistics - Thoroughly linguistically based - Focuses on processes of language change that provides explanations and contextualizes the detailed changes - Provides great than usual attention to syntax - Gives a fuller treatment of Indo-European and Germanic - Incorporates new theories, such as "grammaticalization" - Offers a balanced focus on formal and cultural aspects of language history - Most of the examples presented are taken from literary sources, especially Chaucer and Shakespeare for Middle and Early Modern English, respectively - Integrates self-testing exercises throughout the book - Provides recommended web links (external history, pronunciation guides, grammar reviews, supplemental exercises, sample manuscripts and texts, maps, etc.) at the end of each chapter