ETYMOLOGY AND GRAMMATICAL DISCOURSE IN LATE ANTIQUITY AND THE EARLY MIDDLE AGES

Poses some general problems of a theory of language and semiotics within a historical analysis of linguistic discourse. Amsler (U. of Delaware) finds that in the period 200-1000 AD, European grammar and related studies were pursued mainly as part of commentary on texts, usually sacred. Explores technical, exegetical, encyclopedic, and dialectical discourses of such writers as Varro, Augustine, Donatus, Priscian, and Jerome, with a whole section devoted to Isidore of Seville. Excellent bibliography of primary sources