A FUNDAMENTAL TURNING POINT IN THE HISTORY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE: EXPRESSING THE RADICALLY CHANGING FORM OF WORDS

Abstract

This article posits the Great Vowel Shift (GVS) as the fundamental turning point in the history of the English language, responsible for precipitating a radical and systemic change in the phonological form of its words. The investigation argues that the GVS was not merely a series of sound changes but a catalytic event that permanently decoupled spoken and written English. Through an analysis of historical linguistic methodology, including orthographic evidence, rhyme, and metrical patterns, this paper demonstrates how the GVS forced a fossilization of spelling, creating the deep orthography characteristic of Modern English. The discussion extends to the consequent expressive adaptations, examining how poetry, homophony, and the very soundscape of the language were irrevocably altered. The conclusion affirms that the GVS represents the most profound phonological revolution in English, shaping its modern identity, its challenges in literacy, and its unique expressive potential.