A Cursory History of Swearing (eBook)

Julian Sharman, an author with a keen interest in the evolution of language and societal customs, is perhaps best known for his intriguing work, 'A Cursory History of Swearing'. Although not much is widely documented about Sharman's personal life or academic background, his contribution to literature lies primarily in his exploration of the historical context and social implications of swearing. In his book, Sharman delves into the origins and development of oaths and profanities, tracing their roots from antiquity to more modern times, and examining their functions and transformations within English speech. His scholarly approach to what might be considered a risquu00e9 subject reflects a larger Victorian fascination with etymology and the history of the English language. 'A Cursory History of Swearing' stands as a testament to Sharman's meticulous research and his talent for presenting comprehensive analyses of linguistic phenomena in an engaging manner. His work contributes to the field of historical linguistics and provides an insightful look into the cultural attitudes toward language and its taboos, offering readers a glimpse into the complex interplay between societal norms and the words deemed inappropriate or vulgar throughout different periods in history.